Match Preview

Real Madrid play host to the Primera Division-returning Rayo Vallecano at the Bernabeu on Saturday.

Rayo spent last season in the Segunda Division where they finished sixth place under newly-appointed manager Andoni Iraola. Despite finishing outside the top five, they were able to claim a spot back in the top flight after defeating Girona in the playoff.

They’re off to a strong start this season already holding 20 points, which is good for sixth in the LaLiga table. Real Madrid have collected four more points and are tied with Sevilla on points for second place.

Rayo have only won one of their last 15 away matches while Real Madrid have only lost one of their last 18 matches at home against Vallecano.

Injuries/Suspensions

Real Madrid will be without Gareth Bale, Dani Ceballos, Fede Valverde, Mariano and Rodrygo due to injuries.

Rayo will likely be without forward Martin Merquelanz due to an ongoing knee injury.

There are no suspensions for either club in Saturday’s feature.

Potential XIs

Real Madrid

Courtois; Carvajal, Militao, Alaba, Mendy; Modric, Casemiro, Kroos; Vazquez, Vinicius, Benzema

We will likely see a similar lineup to what manager Carlo Ancelotti has been putting out as of late. Lucas Vazquez could get the start on the right side alongside Vinicius and Benzema, though Marco Asensio is an option as well.

Rayo Vallecano

Dimitrievski; Ballui, Saveljich, Catena, Fran Garcia; Valentin, Comesana; Palazon, Trejo, Alvaro Garcia; Falcao

Prediction

Real Madrid—Rayo Vallecano 2-1

This will be a sneakily tough match as Rayo have played well this season and have kept things fairly close in most of their matches.

Real have drawn their last two home matches and it’s been quite some time since they’ve done that three times in a row. This will likely be a low scoring affair, but there’s always surprises when LaLiga weekends come around.