Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Preview: Team News, Predicted Lineups and Score Prediction
Villarreal, currently sixth in LaLiga, will host 13th-placed Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, December 18th at 20:30 UTC. This match at Estadio de la Cerámica promises to be an intriguing encounter, with both sides looking to improve their league standing.
Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Form
Villarreal's recent form has been inconsistent. Although they sit in the top half of the table, they have failed to win any of their last five matches in all competitions, including back-to-back league defeats. The home side have also conceded at least two goals in their last four league games, indicating a weakness at the back.
In contrast, Rayo Vallecano have shown some resilience, drawing with Real Madrid in their last outing. The away team are unbeaten in three matches in all competitions and have won four of their last six matches on the road. In their previous meetings, Villarreal have dominated at home, winning three of the last six encounters, with one draw and two wins for Rayo Vallecano.
Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Predicted Lineups and Team News
Villarreal XI (4-4-2): L. Júnior; S. Cardona, L. Costa, R. Albiol, P. Navarro; D. Suárez, S. Comesaña, P. Gueye, Y. Pino; T. Barry, G. Moreno.
Villarreal are facing a selection crisis with several key players missing. Akhomach and Pépé are sidelined through injury, while Conde, Foyth and Terrats are doubtful. Parejo, Femenía, and Baena are all suspended, further weakening their squad. Pedraza is also unavailable due to fitness issues.
Rayo Vallecano XI (4-4-2): A. Batalla; P. Chavarría, A. Mumin, F. Lejeune, A. Ratiu; A. Embarba, U. López, P. Ciss, J. d. Frutos; I. Palazón, R. Nteka
Rayo Vallecano have fewer concerns, with only De Tomás and Fernández unavailable due to injury.
Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Tactical Analysis
Villarreal's tactical approach is characterised by attacking through the middle and taking a high volume of shots, often looking for through balls. They also focus on attacking down the right flank. However, they struggle defensively against long shots, set pieces and attacks down the wings. They also have a tendency to concede leads.
Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, prefer to play with width, take long shots, and deliver crosses. Their strengths lie in attacking set pieces and creating chances through individual skill. However, they are vulnerable to counter attacks and struggle in aerial duels. This clash of styles could see Villarreal dominate possession and create chances, while Rayo look to exploit any defensive weaknesses on the counter.
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Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Key Battle: Yeremy Pino vs Pep Chavarria
A key battle in this match will be between Villarreal's winger Yeremy Pino and Rayo Vallecano's left-back, Pep Chavarria. Pino's ability to create scoring opportunities and attack down the right will test Chavarria’s defensive capabilities. Chavarria will need to be at his best to contain Pino's runs and prevent crosses into the box. This individual duel could have a significant bearing on the outcome of the match.
Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Prediction
While Villarreal have a strong historical record at home against Rayo Vallecano, their current form suggests this will be a tough match. The significant number of absences through suspension and injury will test their squad depth. Rayo Vallecano, buoyed by their recent good form and a draw against Real Madrid, will be confident of getting a result. They have a solid away record and will be looking to exploit Villarreal's defensive vulnerabilities.
The match is likely to be an open and entertaining affair, with both teams finding the net. However, given the home side's struggles and the away side's recent upturn in form, a draw seems the most probable outcome.
Prediction: Villarreal 2-2 Rayo Vallecano
