Prediction: Valencia vs Rayo Vallecano

Prediction: Valencia win

Best Odds: 11/10

Bookmaker: 888sport

Following another fascinating international break, we’re back with a whole host of action across Europe as the elite leagues get back underway. That includes La Liga, as Spanish football’s top tier begins the slow but steady push towards the end of the campaign. Today, we’ll be taking a look at a collision between two sides in very different positions as Valencia prepare to take on Rayo Vallecano.

Valencia

The Valencia that many of us knew in our youth is no more. This club seems to have been put through a blender over the last twelve months and now, they are situated in the relegation zone, with many tipping them to go down in the months ahead. They just can’t seem to get themselves going and when your confidence is this low, it’s really difficult to see where your next win is coming from – both home and away.

Rayo Vallecano

Recent years have seen Rayo Vallecano rise up into the top tier and, from there, they’ve done a pretty solid job of becoming an established presence in La Liga. From big name signings to fun, energetic football, they’ve been a joy to watch. With that being said, it does feel like they’ve slowly but surely been figured out in recent times, which is why it’s worth keeping an eye on their run-in between now and the end of May.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in September, Vallecano beat Valencia 2-1.
• Valencia have won two and lost four of their last six games.
• Vallecano have drawn four and lost two of their last six games.
• Valencia have scored three goals and conceded seven in their last six games.
• Vallecano have scored four goals and conceded eight in their last six games.

Conclusion

Neither team has been particularly prolific in front of goal recently and we expect that trend to continue in a tight, tense affair. Valencia are low on confidence but in the midst of a situation like theirs, you have to go for it in games such as this. We don’t think Vallecano are going to have too much to offer in return given their own drop in form, which is why we’re backing a very gritty 1-0 win for Valencia.

Prediction: Valencia win

Best Odds: 11/10

Bookmaker: 888sport