Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the La Liga match.
Heading into the final round of La Liga, Rayo Vallecano still have a mathematical chance of qualifying for the Europa League. Dropping points against Real Mallorca is not an option. Meanwhile, the visitors are already out of the running for European football and are expected to once again struggle in attack when playing away.
Rayo Vallecano
Over 37 matches, Rayo Vallecano have scored just 41 goals — the lowest tally among the top 10 teams apart from Real Mallorca, who have only managed 35. Rayo Vallecano are currently on a four-match unbeaten run (three wins and one draw), conceding just three goals during that stretch. They have recorded Total Under 2.5 goals in 20 league fixtures this season, often performing better when playing on the counter.
Real Mallorca
Real Mallorca, before their recent downturn — four defeats in five La Liga fixtures — were in contention for both the Europa League and Europa Conference League spots. In their games against Real Madrid and Getafe (both 1:2), they registered a combined 3.04 xG, a total bettered by only three other sides over the last two matchdays. However, five players will miss Saturday's game due to injury. The absence of Abdón Prats, Pablo Maffeo, and Takuma Asano will significantly weaken their attacking potential.
Rayo Vallecano vs Real Mallorca Prediction
In the reverse fixture, Rayo Vallecano suffered a narrow 0:1 defeat to Real Mallorca. A similarly tight affair is expected this time, with both mid-table sides likely to adopt a cautious approach.
