Rayo Vallecano vs Espanyol: a relegation scrap in Vallecas 
Rayo Vallecano host Espanyol in a huge clash at the bottom. The home side are fighting to secure their top-flight status. Espanyol come into it three points clear of their rivals. Kick-off should bring a fierce, tight contest. There is plenty at stake this late in the season.
Rayo Vallecano’s momentum is building 
The home side are fresh from a historic European qualification. That recent success has lifted spirits around the capital club. Survival in the top flight remains the clear priority. They have lost just one of their last 12 home games. The mood in Vallecas is very upbeat right now. The players want a win over Espanyol to move further away from danger. The back line will need to stay switched on for the full 90 minutes.
Espanyol are in deep trouble 
The manager is going through a brutal run. The squad have not won a game since the start of the year. The numbers point to worrying defensive frailty. Their recent collapse in the Catalan derby hit hard. Supporters fear a disastrous finish to the campaign. The attacking output has also been far too poor in recent weeks. Recent history in Madrid does at least lean in Espanyol’s favour. They won convincingly on their last visit here. But the pressure is piling up.
Likely line-ups
Rayo Vallecano : Batalla ; Ratiu, Vertrouwd, Ciss, Espino ; Valentin, Lopez ; Akhomach, Palazon, Chavarria ; De Frutos
Espanyol : Dmitrovic ; El Hilali, Calero, Cabrera, Romero ; Exposito, Lozano ; Ngonge, Terrats, Dolan ; Fernandez
Football Prediction Rayo Vallecano vs Espanyol
Over 2.5 goals in the match
Rayo’s European hangover should open the game right up. With points urgently needed, Espanyol will have to go for it.
Defensive mistakes could hurt both sides. Quick transitions should set the tone.
The scoreboard looks likely to tick over on Thursday.
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