Tips for match Rayo Vallecano — Real Madrid

On December 14, 2024, the Vallecas stadium will host the match of the 17th round of La Liga between Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid. This match is important for both teams, which are at opposite ends of the standings. Real Madrid continues to fight for the championship title, while Rayo is trying to secure its place away from the relegation zone.

Iñigo Pérez's team has been playing inconsistently this season. In the last five La Liga matches, Rayo has won two, drawn one match and lost twice. Among the bright results, it is worth noting the victory over Valencia (1:0) away, where Rayo realized its counterattacking potential. However, on the home field, the team's results are far from ideal: only one win in the last five matches.

Rayo's problems are related to low scoring: on average, the team scores only one goal per game. Key players such as Isi Palazón have been showing consistent but not outstanding form. The team is weakened ahead of the match against Real Madrid by injuries to Raúl De Tomas and defender Pelayo Fernández, making it difficult to compete against a stronger opponent.

The Madrid team is heading into the match as favourites. After losing to Athletic (1:2), Carlo Ancelotti's team have won confidently against Girona (3:0) and Atalanta (3:2). The main contributors to the success are Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham. The latter is in excellent form: in the last four matches he has scored four goals and made two assists.

Despite the success in attack, Real Madrid's defence continues to experience personnel problems. Eder Militao, Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Carvajal are out with long-term injuries, and now Ferland Mendy has been added to them. This could give Rayo a chance to create chances, especially on the counter-attack.

Real Madrid have historically dominated matches against Rayo, but the last two seasons have been tough for the Madrid side. In the 2023/24 season, both matches ended in draws (0-0 and 1-1), and in 2022/23, the teams exchanged narrow wins. Rayo have proven that they can impose a fight and squeeze the best out of their opportunities.

Real Madrid have a much better squad and better form, especially in attack. They are expected to control the game, creating chances through individual efforts from Bellingham and Vinicius. However, the visiting defense could make mistakes, which would allow Rayo to score.

Sportwars.net forecast for the match Rayo Vallecano - Real Madrid, 12/14/2024: Total Over 2.5 (3 or more goals will be scored in the match), odds 1.8.

Forecast for the exact score: 1-3, odds 11.