South Madrid derby kicks off 2026 as goal-shy neighbours seek New Year spark
Rayo Vallecano and Getafe clash in the first Spanish match of 2026, with both sides desperate to end their alarming goalscoring droughts in La Liga.
Two teams struggling to find the back of the onion bag face off in the first Spanish fixture of 2026, as goal-shy neighbours Rayo Vallecano and Getafe lock horns at Vallecas.
Scoring droughts reaching crisis point
The stats make for grim reading for both sets of supporters. Rayo have managed just one measly goal in their last seven league outings, while Getafe have drawn blanks in five of their previous six La Liga matches. Only Oviedo have comparable scoring woes in the division.
Mixed emotions at Rayo
It’s a peculiar atmosphere around Vallecas these days - a curious cocktail of optimism and concern. On one hand, they’re sitting above the relegation zone, have progressed to the Conference League knockout stages, and remain in the Copa del Rey hunt. Not too shabby, all things considered.
However, their league form has been proper pants recently, with the squad showing clear signs of physical and mental fatigue as 2025 drew to a close. Manager Iñigo is desperately hoping for January reinforcements, but must first navigate this derby without several key players:
- De Frutos, Balliu and Pathé Ciss are all unavailable
- Alemao remains doubtful with ongoing groin issues
- Nteka returns following Angola’s elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations
Getafe’s New Year resolution
Bordalás and his Getafe side are looking to replicate last January’s form, when they effectively secured their top-flight status with a strong start to the year. They’ll need to overcome their historical struggles at Vallecas, however, with the short trip across southern Madrid rarely bringing joy.
Their task has been made significantly harder by the late withdrawal of Borja Mayoral, leaving them without a recognised senior striker for the derby. Joselu from Getafe B represents their only natural forward option.
Midfield masterclass on the cards?
With both attacks misfiring, the spotlight falls on the engine room where Unai López and Luis Milla will battle for midfield supremacy. López’s contract situation is attracting attention from several La Liga clubs, while Milla has another year remaining before becoming a free agent.
Both clubs harbour hopes of keeping their creative lynchpins beyond their current deals, but with goals at such a premium, these playmakers might fancy their chances of being the difference-maker in this New Year’s derby.