Prediction: Rayo Vallecano vs Almeria

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 51/20

Bookmaker: 888sport

La Liga football returns this week with another full slate of action from Spanish football’s top tier. Things are looking pretty tight both at the top and the bottom of the table but given that we’re still just coming out of the winter break, many teams are only just getting into a real rhythm. Today, we’ll be taking a look at what should be an interesting clash between Rayo Vallecano and Almeria.

Rayo Vallecano

Given the financial input that Rayo Vallecano have enjoyed over the course of the last few years, it makes sense that they’re starting to flirt with the top half on a consistent basis. They have a strong core through their squad and the most important thing for them is that they’ve found the dynamic of blending experience with youth, which should bode very well for them in the long-term future.

Team News

With no suspensions, the only worries for Vallecano are Valentin and Garcia who are both fitness concerns.

Almeria

Almeria are just getting their feet wet with life back in the big time, and while they are still going to have one eye over their shoulder, they’re building a nice foundation. They don’t have a squad that’s going to blow anyone out of the water by any stretch but in a lot of ways, that’s a positive. They feel like a side that knows what they can do on their best day, which should excite their fanbase at the very least.

Team News

Kaiky is a fitness doubt but outside of that, there’s nothing to worry about for the visitors.

Factors to Consider

• Vallecano are 8th in La Liga whereas Almeria are 13th.
• Vallecano have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.
• Almeria have won one, drawn three and lost two of their last six games.
• Vallecano have scored five goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Almeria have scored seven goals and conceded nine in their last six games.

Conclusion

This isn’t going to be the most technical of games and yet, we’d argue it will actually end up being quite entertaining. Both teams will play loose and fast with the ball, but there isn’t going to be much of an end product from either side. Ultimately, we’re going to back the prospect of a 1-1 draw, which isn’t the kind of result that will fill either Vallecano or Almeria with confidence as mid-table issues persist.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 51/20

Bookmaker: 888sport