Real Betis vs Rayo Vallecano: A La Liga Battle in Seville
Real Betis will be looking to continue their impressive run in La Liga when they host Rayo Vallecano this Saturday afternoon. Manuel Pellegrini’s side are firmly in the hunt for a Champions League spot, while Rayo are battling to secure their top-flight status. This promises to be a captivating encounter at the Estadio Benito Villamarín.
Real Betis’ Pursuit of Champions League Football
Currently sitting fifth in the La Liga table with 41 points from 24 matches, Real Betis are just four points behind Atletico Madrid in fourth. Their recent form has been excellent, securing victories against Valencia, Atletico Madrid, and Mallorca. Pellegrini’s men have been particularly strong at home, accumulating 22 points from 11 matches. A Champions League finish is well within their grasp as the season progresses. You can find more detailed league standings and analysis on the official La Liga website.
Rayo Vallecano’s Fight for Survival
Rayo Vallecano find themselves in a precarious position, currently 17th with 25 points, just one point above the relegation zone. However, they are also only one point behind 13th-placed Sevilla, demonstrating the tight nature of the league table. A stunning 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in their last outing will undoubtedly boost their confidence, representing only their second La Liga win since late October.
Recent Form
- Real Betis La Liga Form: DWWWWW
- Real Betis Form (All Competitions): LWWLWW
- Rayo Vallecano La Liga Form: DWLLLW
- Rayo Vallecano Form (All Competitions): WLLLLW
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Real Betis have struggled against Rayo Vallecano. They haven’t defeated Rayo since September 2023, with the last three meetings in La Liga ending in draws – a goalless stalemate in December 2025 and a 1-1 draw in December 2024. Rayo’s only La Liga win against Betis since April 2014 came in March 2024, a 2-0 victory on home soil.
Team News & Potential Lineups
Real Betis will be without Sofyan Amrabat, Giovani Lo Celso, and Isco due to injury, with Hector Bellerin also a doubt. Cucho Hernandez faces a late fitness test, but Cedric Bakambu is likely to lead the line after scoring against Mallorca.
Real Betis Possible Starting Lineup: Valles; Ruibal, Llorente, Natan, Rodriguez; Antony, Fornals, Roca, Fidalgo, Ezzalzouli; Bakambu
Rayo Vallecano will be missing Diego Mendez through injury, but receive a boost with Pep Chavarria and Pathe Ciss returning from suspension. Chavarria is expected to slot back into the starting XI.
Rayo Vallecano Possible Starting Lineup: Batalla; Ratiu, Lejeune, Mendy, Chavarria; Valentin, Gumbau; Akhomach, Palazon, Perez; De Frutos
Prediction
Despite Rayo’s impressive win against Atletico Madrid, Real Betis’ strong home form and Champions League aspirations suggest they will secure all three points in this encounter. The Seville outfit are in excellent form and will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage.
For more in-depth data analysis, including predicted scorelines, visit WhoScored.com.
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