Espanyol is set to face Rayo Vallecano in a key La Liga match at home on Sunday night. With aspirations for three consecutive league victories, Espanyol occupies the sixth position in the La Liga table with 24 points, while Rayo Vallecano stands ninth with 17 points.
Match Preview: Espanyol vs Rayo Vallecano
Espanyol has shown impressive form this season, accumulating a total of seven wins, three draws, and four losses from 14 league encounters. Their recent performances include back-to-back victories against Sevilla and Celta Vigo. However, they recently suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat against Baleares in the Copa del Rey, which leaves them focusing solely on La Liga for the remainder of the season.
The Catalan club has performed notably well at home, collecting 16 points from eight matches. In contrast, Rayo Vallecano has managed to secure 10 points in their away games this season.
Current Form
- Espanyol La Liga Form: WWLLWW
- Rayo Vallecano La Liga Form: WWLDDD
Rayo Vallecano also played in the Copa del Rey on Thursday, winning 2-1 in extra time. The team currently sits in 12th place in the Conference League, with seven points from four matches. Their La Liga record includes four wins, five draws, and five defeats, putting them just three points shy of seventh-placed Getafe.
Team News
Espanyol is missing key player Javi Puado, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since early October. Nevertheless, they boast a strong squad, with Roberto Fernandez, who has netted three goals this season, likely to feature prominently. Key changes in personnel are expected following the Copa del Rey match, with Edu Exposito anticipated to maintain his midfield role.
On the other hand, Rayo Vallecano faces several injury concerns, with Abdul Mumin, Diego Mendez, Pedro Diaz, and Oscar Trejo all ruled out. Pathe Ciss will serve a suspension due to a red card received in a recent match. Alvaro Garcia, noted for his excellent scoring record this season with nine goals in 22 appearances, is expected to lead the attack.
Probable Starting Lineups
| Espanyol | Rayo Vallecano |
|---|---|
| Dmitrovic | Batalla |
| El Hilali | Ratiu |
| Calero | Lejeune |
| Cabrera | Mendy |
| Romero | Chavarria |
| Dolan | Perez |
| Lozano | Valentin |
| Zarate | Lopez |
| Exposito | Garcia |
| Milla | De Frutos |
| Fernandez | Alemao |
This clash promises to be a tightly contested matchup. Espanyol’s home advantage could be pivotal as they aim for a narrow victory over Rayo Vallecano. Fans eagerly anticipate an exciting encounter at the RCDE Stadium.
