Rayo Vallecano vs Atletico Madrid: La Liga Preview & Prediction

Atlético Madrid travels to Estadio Ontime Butarque on Sunday to face Rayo Vallecano in a La Liga match following a dominant 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. The match, however, will not be held at Rayo’s usual home ground, Estadio de Vallecas, due to a waterlogged pitch that failed inspection by La Liga officials.

Even as Atlético Madrid are currently enjoying a strong cup run and sit third in the La Liga table with 45 points, level with Villarreal, their league form has been inconsistent. A recent 1-0 defeat at home to Real Betis highlighted this inconsistency and Diego Simeone’s side will be looking to rebound against Rayo Vallecano.

Rayo Vallecano, meanwhile, are struggling in La Liga, currently occupying the 18th position with 22 points. They are just one point above Valencia, the first team outside the relegation zone. Their recent form has been particularly poor, with losses to Celta Vigo, Osasuna, and Real Madrid. Their last match, scheduled against Real Oviedo, was postponed due to the unplayable pitch at Vallecas.

The relocation of the match to Leganés’ Estadio Ontime Butarque adds an unusual element to the fixture. Rayo Vallecano have only secured two wins in ten home league games this season, and the change of venue may further impact their performance. They have drawn six of those ten home matches, suggesting a tendency for closely contested games at their stadium, even before the forced relocation.

Team news indicates several absences for Rayo Vallecano. Abdul Mumin remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Pep Chavarria and Pathe Ciss are suspended following red cards received against Real Madrid. Unai Lopez and Diego Mendez are also facing late fitness tests. Atlético Madrid will be without Johnny Cardoso and Pablo Barrios due to muscular injuries, but Jan Oblak is expected to return in goal after being rested for the Copa del Rey match.

Antoine Griezmann and Nahuel Molina, who both performed well against Barcelona, are likely to retain their starting positions for Atlético Madrid. Simeone will be looking to capitalize on the momentum from the Copa del Rey win and secure a vital three points in the league.