Rayo Vallecano vs Levante: A Crucial La Liga Encounter

Rayo Vallecano will be looking to build on recent successes as they host Levante in a vital La Liga match on Monday night. The capital club aims for consecutive wins across all competitions, while Levante desperately needs points to climb out of the relegation zone.

Current Standings and Recent Form

Rayo Vallecano currently sits 15th in the La Liga table with 31 points, six points above the drop zone. Their recent form has been solid, remaining unbeaten in their last five league games, including a 1-1 draw against Sevilla. They are coming off a strong 3-1 victory over Samsunspor in the first leg of their Conference League last-16 tie, putting them in a favorable position for the next round.

Levante, on the other hand, finds themselves in a precarious position, 19th in the league with 27 points, four points behind Elche. They have struggled defensively this season, conceding a league-worst 45 goals in 27 matches. However, they’ve shown signs of life recently, earning four points from their last two games, including a win against Alaves and a draw with Girona.

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Levante slightly edges the head-to-head record with 15 wins compared to Rayo Vallecano’s 13, with 11 draws between the two sides. However, Rayo secured a convincing 3-0 victory in the reverse fixture earlier this season. Levante did win 4-2 in the corresponding match in the 2021-22 season, demonstrating their capability to challenge Rayo.

Team News and Potential Lineups

Rayo Vallecano will be without Diego Mendez due to injury. Coach Inigo Perez is expected to rotate the squad, considering their upcoming Conference League second leg. Alemao, who scored twice in the recent European match, may be rested, with Jorge de Frutos potentially taking his place. Isi Palazon and Ilias Akhomach could also see limited minutes.

Rayo Vallecano possible starting lineup: Batalla; Ratiu, Lejeune, Mendy, Espino; Valentin, Gumbau; Martin, Diaz, A Garcia; De Frutos

Levante faces several injury concerns with Roger Brugue, Pablo Martinez, and Carlos Alvarez sidelined. Unai Elgezabal, Ugo Raghouber, and Kareem Tunde are also doubtful. Adrian de la Fuente and Jon Olasagasti are suspended. Carlos Espi, who has been in good form with three goals in his last two appearances, is expected to lead the attack.

Levante possible starting lineup: Ryan; Toljan, Matturro, Moreno, Sanchez; Arriaga, Rey; V Garcia, Romero, Cortes; Espi

Prediction

Rayo Vallecano’s focus on the Conference League could provide Levante with an opportunity. While a Levante win is not heavily favored, a draw seems a likely outcome. Levante’s recent form and Rayo’s potential squad rotation suggest a closely contested match. For more in-depth data analysis and potential scorelines, check out WhoScored.com.

Rayo Vallecano La Liga form: LWDDWD

Rayo Vallecano form (all competitions): WDDWDW

Levante La Liga form: LLLLWD

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