Rayo Vallecano vs. Girona – Preview, Prediction, Team news, Lineups – Football News, Previews, Predictions, Transfers

In an electrifying La Liga encounter, Girona, led by former Rayo Vallecano player and manager Michel, faces Rayo Vallecano. Girona, surprising league leaders, seeks to extend their two-point lead, while Rayo, in European contention, aims for a home victory.

Match Preview:

Rayo Vallecano, under Francisco’s guidance, has emerged as a resilient force, collecting 18 points in 12 matches.

After challenging Atletico Madrid and Real Betis, Rayo has proven their mettle with three wins and six draws in their last nine games.

Their recent goalless draw against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabeu showcased defensive prowess. Rayo, with six clean sheets in 12 La Liga games, stands firm, and Girona anticipates a stern test.

Girona, despite a setback against Osasuna, finished matchday 12 as league leaders. A comeback win highlighted their attacking prowess, with players like Dovbyk and Tsygankov finding the net.

Girona, having won 10 of 12 league matches, sits atop La Liga with a two-point lead over Real Madrid.

Unbeaten away, they face a challenging clash at Vallecas, where Michel returns to a club with a rich history.

Team Form:

Rayo Vallecano La Liga Form: D, D, D, W, D, D

Rayo Vallecano All Competitions Form: D, D, W, D, W, D

Girona La Liga Form: W, L, W, W, W, W

Girona All Competitions Form: L, W, W, W, W, W

Team News:

Rayo, with no fresh injuries, may rely on Ratiu’s impressive display against Vinicius Junior, potentially maintaining an unchanged lineup.

Girona faces several injuries, with key players like David Lopez, Borja Garcia, and Toni Villa unavailable. Tsygankov, after a pivotal role against Osasuna, eyes a starting spot alongside Dovbyk.

Possible Starting Lineups:

Rayo Vallecano:

• Dimitrievski;
• Ratiu, Mumin, Lejeune, Espino;
• Ciss, Valentin;
• Palazon, Lopez, Garcia;
• De Tomas

Girona:

• Gazzaniga;
• Martinez, E. Garcia, Blind, Guiterrez;
• A. Garcia;
• Tsygankov, Herrera, Martin, Savio;
• Dovbyk

Prediction: Girona 3-2 Rayo Vallecano

While Girona has struggled in recent meetings with Rayo, their current form suggests they have the firepower to secure a victory.

Expect a closely-fought contest, but Girona’s attacking prowess may tip the scales, securing them three points on Saturday.