Real Sociedad vs Rayo Vallecano Predicted lineup, betting tips, odds, injury news, H2H, telecast | LaLiga 2024-25

Erreala look forward to kickstarting their new season with a win over Los Franjirrojos.

Real Sociedad, who have been strong contenders for domestic silverware in Spain in recent seasons, narrowly missed out on UEFA Champions League qualification last season. They finished 6th in LaLiga and secured a Europa League berth. Manager Imanol Alguacil will be determined to bring his team back to winning ways and ensure that Real Sociedad compete at the highest level once again. Their pre-season campaign began with a penalty shootout loss to Alavés.

However, they managed to secure a victory against Gamba Osaka before suffering back-to-back defeats against Osasuna and Rennes. In their most recent pre-season fixture, they held Union Berlin to a 1-1 draw. Despite the mixed results, Real Sociedad will be eager to turn the page and kickstart their LaLiga campaign on a high note. The team is hoping for a fresh start this season, seeking to erase the disappointments of last year and the pre-season campaign.

Alguacil’s men will be looking to transform their home ground, Reale Arena, into an imposing fortress where opposition teams will find it difficult to play. With renewed energy and positivity, Real Sociedad aim to make a strong statement in the LaLiga season.

Rayo Vallecano narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing 17th in LaLiga. Had they lost another game or two, they would have been bidding farewell to the top tier of Spanish football. Now, with a new season ahead, Rayo Vallecano will be keen to quickly bounce back from the struggles of last year and establish themselves as more than just relegation survivors. Their pre-season has been challenging, with heavy defeats against Vitória SC and Heerenveen, followed by a penalty shootout loss to Córdoba.

Additionally, AFC Bournemouth edged them out by a slender margin. However, their most recent encounter offered a glimmer of hope, as Iñigo Pérez’s side secured a 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. This win provides something to build on as they head into the new campaign.

Rayo Vallecano now face a daunting task in their LaLiga opener against Real Sociedad, one of the strongest teams in the league. Despite the uphill challenge, Rayo will be aiming not only to avoid relegation but also to push higher up the LaLiga table this season. Their success will hinge on their ability to capitalize on any momentum gained and turn their pre-season struggles into valuable lessons.

Real Sociedad may appear to have the upper hand in their upcoming fixture against Rayo Vallecano, especially given their squad depth and goal-scoring prowess. With Rayo’s concerning pre-season form, many would expect a straightforward victory for the Basque side. However, it would be unwise to completely dismiss Rayo Vallecano as they have the potential to spring a surprise and pull off an upset, especially in an opening fixture where anything can happen.

The visitors will be looking to start their season with a statement win and defy expectations. Real Sociedad will be determined to stamp their authority from the outset. They have their sights set on competing with Spain’s top clubs for a spot at the top of the LaLiga table. Expect Real Sociedad to approach the match with focus and determination, knowing that a strong start is crucial if they want to challenge the Spanish giants this season.

Kick-Off:

Sunday, 18 August 2024 at 10:30 PM IST

Location: Reale Arena, San Sebastian, Spain

Form:

Real Sociedad (in all competitions): D-L-L-W-L

Rayo Vallecano (in all competitions): W-L-L-L-L

✨ First show of the season ✨#RealSociedadRayo pic.twitter.com/CDsbijOqMV

— Real Sociedad 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 (@RealSociedadEN) August 16, 2024

Players to watch:

Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)

Mikel Oyarzabal, captain of Real Sociedad and a key figure in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, has been nothing short of exceptional in recent years. His winning goal in the 86th minute of the Euro 2024 final against England will forever be etched in Spanish football history. It not only clinched the title for Spain but also dealt a devastating blow to Gareth Southgate‘s side.

Oyarzabal’s influence on the pitch is undeniable. His impressive record of 280 appearances and 76 goals for Real Sociedad speaks volumes about his consistency and dedication. Starting his career with Eibar before joining Real Sociedad in 2014, Oyarzabal has firmly established himself as a club legend.

His leadership on the field is matched by his accolades, including two LaLiga Player of the Month awards and a pivotal role in Sociedad’s Copa del Rey victory in the 2019-20 season. Internationally, his 37 appearances for Spain highlight his importance to the national team, with his involvement in the 2021 UEFA Nations League as a runner-up adding to his growing list of achievements.

Remarkably, Oyarzabal has managed to balance his football career with academic pursuits, studying for a business degree at the University of Deusto. This combination of athletic excellence and academic ambition makes him a true role model on and off the field. As Real Sociedad’s captain, he will continue to inspire his team and fans alike as they aim for success in LaLiga and beyond.

Sergio Camello (Rayo Vallecano)

Sergio Camelllo, the 5’10” centre-forward from Madrid, is poised to play a pivotal role for Rayo Vallecano in their upcoming LaLiga fixture. Having joined Atlético Madrid‘s youth setup in 2009, Camello’s early career was marked by his progression through the ranks, making a notable impact with 58 appearances for both the senior and junior teams.

His loan spell at Rayo Vallecano was particularly noteworthy, where he scored six goals in 38 matches, catching the eye of the club. In 2023, his impressive performances earned him a permanent four-year contract with Rayo Vallecano. Additionally, Camello has represented Spain at the youth level, scoring two goals in two appearances during the Olympics.

Despite Rayo Vallecano’s recent struggles, Camello’s youthful energy and attacking prowess could be key to turning their fortunes around this season. His ability to make decisive contributions on the field will be crucial as Rayo Vallecano seek to improve their standing and make a mark in LaLiga.

Match facts:

• Real Sociedad lost three of their last five matches.
• Rayo Vallecano won one of their last five matches.
• Rayo Vallecano are coming after a slender win over Wolves.

Real Sociedad vs Rayo Vallecano : Betting Tips and Odds:

• Tip 1: Real Sociedad to win the match: 4/7 with SkyBet
• Tip 2: Mikel Oyarzabal to score: 4/1 with Bet 365
• Tip 3: Goals under 4.5: 1/33 with Paddy Power

Injury and team news:

Real Sociedad will miss the presence of Arsen Zakharayan and Aihen Munoz for the opening game.

Rayo Vallecano have no injury or fitness concerns.

Head-to-head:

Last five matches –

• Total matches: 5
• Real Sociedad won: 2
• Rayo Vallecano won: 0
• Matches drawn: 3

Predicted lineup:

Real Sociedad predicted lineup (4-2-3-1):

Remiro (GK); Odriozola, Elustondo, Zubeldia, Gomez; Zubimendi, Sucic; Kubo, Mendez, Barrenetxea; Oyarzabal

Rayo Vallecano predicted lineup (4-4-2):

Cardenas (GK); Balliu, Aridane, Lejeune, Mumin; Palazon, Ciss, Gumbau, De Frutos; Trejo, Camello

Match prediction for Real Sociedad vs Rayo Vallecano :

Real Sociedad are looking eager and resolute to kickstart their new season in the most convincing manner. We are expecting them to get the better of Rayo Vallecano comfortably.

Prediction: Real Sociedad 3-1 Rayo Vallecano

Telecast for Real Sociedad vs Rayo Vallecano:

India: GXR World website

UK: LaLigaTV, Amazon Prime Video, Premier Sports Player

USA: ABC, ESPN, ESPN+, ESPN Deportes

Nigeria: SuperSport

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