Prematch: Rayo Vallecano vs FC Barcelona
Barca are looking to extend their unbeaten streak against ATL Madrid following a narrow victory last time out
Published: April 24, 2023 12:08
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Rayo Vallecano vs. FC Barcelona will kickoff on Wednesday evening (GMT+1). They’ll play at Estadio de Vallecas Stadium.
Vallecano Left Disappointed After 2-1 Loss to Real Sociedad, Aiming for Unexpected Victory Against Barcelona on Wednesday
Vallecano were left disappointed after failing to capture a point against Real Sociedad last weekend at Reale Arena despite leading by one goal after Isi Palazon scored his magnificent strike [57′]. They ultimately succumbed 2-1 despite leading by one. The 28-year-old had stolen the ball off a white-and-blue shirt before unleashing a well-executed volley that left Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro kneeling before an immediate response in the form of Alexander Sorloth’s header [59′] left both teams level before Florian Lejeune scored an own goal [80′ O.G]. Red Sashes suffered their second loss in five games as the home side dropped one spot down into 9th position with 40 points collected evenly across victories, draws, and defeats [10W, 10D, 10L]. Rayo are looking to regain lost ground by picking up an unexpected victory against FC Barcelona on Wednesday. Remarkably, Rayo are currently unbeaten against Barcelona over three La Liga encounters with two victories and a draw [2W, 1D, 0L]. Andoni Iraola will hope his side can produce another inspiring performance when he fields a 4–2–3-1 formation featuring Raul de Tomas upfront. Additionally, Alejandro Catena and Garcia Rivera will return after having been suspended during last weekend’s match with Sociedad.
Ferran Torres' Solo Goal Helps Barcelona Edge Past Atletico Madrid in La Liga Clash
Barcelona edged past Atletico Madrid this weekend thanks to Ferran Torres’s solo goal (44′). Raphinha’s failure to convert an incredible, clear-cut opportunity, coupled with questionable decision-making from Robert Lewandowski, meant Barcelona were only able to score once. Lewandowski had been successful earlier in the season; now not so much – yet goals will surely follow soon enough.” “All forwards want to score,” commented Xavi following Poland international Piotr Zielinski’s disallowed shot on goal with an attempt from an otherwise free teammate. This victory saw Barcelona return to winning ways after two draws WWDDW; their position remains 11 points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid who hold 72 points from 24 wins, 4 draws and two losses respectively. Barca had won all four of their La Liga games prior to a three-match losing streak [4W, 1D, 2L]. Ferran Torres finally earned himself a starting position against ATL Madrid after failing to do so in three previous encounters. He should remain as one of Xavi’s four attacking options in a 4–3–3 with Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha. Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen, Sergi Roberto [muscle injury], Ousmane Dembele may return soon while Sergio Busquets will sit out Wednesday’s match against Rayo Vallecano due to yellow card suspension.
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