Form and Line-up
Rayo Vallecano drew in their last two rounds with far from top opponents Girona (1:1) and Valencia (1:1), although Rayo Vallecano almost doubled their opponents for shots in both games and gifted the goals they conceded. Of course, the home team did not leave those matches without points, but now they face Villarreal, who definitely will not forgive such complacency.
Key numbers for Rayo Vallecano:
Rayo Vallecano are fifth for possession (53.5%).
Rayo Vallecano are 18th for goals scored (37).
Rayo Vallecano are fourth for big chances missed (64).
Probable Rayo Vallecano line-up (4-5-1): Augusto Batalla — Andrei Ratiu, Florian Lejeune, Nobel Mendy, Pep Chavarria — Oscar Valentin, Unai Lopez, Fran Perez, Pedro Diaz, Pacha — Randy Nteka.
Absentees: Ilias Akhomach, Luis Felipe (both injured), Isi Palazon (suspended), Ivan Balliu, Gerard Gumbau (both doubtful).
Form and Line-up
Villarreal failed to cope with Sevilla (2:3) in the last round, but there is certainly no need to worry too much about that. At least, not because of the main reason for the setback. Marcelino's team were unable to play in their usual style, which significantly complicated life for the visitors in attack. Far more important is that in that match Georges Mikautadze excelled (a goal and an assist), thanks to which he moved into the top 10 scorers (12+6).
Key numbers for Villarreal:
Villarreal are 17th for possession (44.4%).
Villarreal are fourth for xG (55.5) and seventh for shots on target (4.5).
Villarreal are fifth for clearances (26.9).
Probable Villarreal line-up (4-5-1): Arnau Tenas — Alex Freeman, Pau Navarro, Rafa Marin, Alfonso Pedraza — Nicolas Pepe, Dani Parejo, Pape Gueye, Alberto Moleiro — Gerard Moreno, Georges Mikautadze.
Absentees: Juan Foyth (injured), Renato Veiga (suspended).
