Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the La Liga match.
Rayo Vallecano and Real Valladolid open the next round of La Liga in a match where both sides are pursuing vastly different objectives. Rayo Vallecano are in strong form and pushing for European qualification, while Real Valladolid are running out of time to escape the relegation zone.
Rayo Vallecano
A hard-fought victory over Leganés extended Rayo Vallecano’s unbeaten run in La Liga to eight matches. However, advanced statistics suggest they have been fortunate defensively, conceding only 24 goals despite 31.26 xGA. At home, they have been solid but not prolific, scoring just 16 goals in 10 matches. Among teams with at least 15 points, only two have a worse attacking output.
Real Valladolid
Real Valladolid, on the other hand, suffered a heavy 1:5 defeat against Villarreal, their fourth loss in their last five league outings. Their gap from safety has now stretched to eight points, and they have the worst attack in La Liga, scoring just 15 goals across 22 matches. Head coach Paulo Pezzolano will be without the injured Eray Cömert and Raúl Moro, though he will welcome back Real Madrid loanee Mario Martín, who returns from suspension.
Rayo Vallecano vs Real Valladolid Prediction
In October, Rayo Vallecano secured their third consecutive victory over Real Valladolid (2:1). Given their current form, they are unlikely to take unnecessary risks, while the visitors' lack of attacking threat on the road suggests this will be a low-scoring affair. The best bet is that at least one of the teams will fail to score.
