Real Madrid are determined to bounce back quickly after their setback: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano prediction
The La Liga fifth-round match between Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano will take place on 12 September at the Santiago Bernabéu. The hosts have collected nine points from four matches, while the visitors have four points and head into the derby after claiming their first league victory.
Real Madrid: three La Liga wins and success in Europe
José Mourinho's side began the league campaign with victories over Espanyol 2-1, Real Sociedad 4-1 and Malaga 4-0, but then suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Betis. After four rounds, Madrid sit third and are already three points behind Barcelona.
Real returned to winning ways during the week by beating Inter 2-1 in the Champions League. In attack, the hosts will once again be able to rely on the combination of Mbappé, Vinícius, Bellingham and Güler.
Rayo Vallecano: first victory after a difficult start
Rayo began the season with a 2-1 defeat to Sevilla, then drew 1-1 with Alaves before suffering a heavy 5-2 loss to Barcelona. In the previous round, they finally claimed their first win by beating Racing 3-2.
However, the visitors are weakened by a number of absences, including Isi Palazón and the suspended Fran Pérez and Jorge de Frutos. Sergio Camello remains the main attacking threat, having scored five goals in four matches.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Real Madrid have won three of their opening four La Liga matches.
- Rayo have drawn four of their last six league meetings with Real Madrid.
- In their most recent meeting in February, Real Madrid won 2-1.
The hosts should take all three points: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano prediction
Rayo are capable of creating chances and have caused Real Madrid problems in several recent head-to-head meetings. However, the visitors' absences significantly reduce their chances of producing another surprise.
Madrid have already responded to the defeat against Betis with a victory over Inter and should play aggressively again at home. In terms of quality and squad depth, the hosts hold a clear advantage.
