Vallecas Relegation Scrap: Rayo and Osasuna in Six-pointer Showdown
With both clubs hovering just three points above the drop zone, Rayo Vallecano and Osasuna face off in a crucial relegation battle with new signings ready to make an impact.
Two sides desperate to put daylight between themselves and the relegation trapdoor meet in what promises to be a proper nerve-jangler in Madrid.
Danger Zone Alert
Rayo Vallecano and Osasuna head into this Vallecas clash with identical 22-point tallies, precariously positioned just three points above 18th-placed Alavés. It’s squeaky bum time for both clubs, who’ll be looking to their shiny new loan signings to provide a spark - Ilias Akhomach for the hosts and Raúl Moro for the visitors could both make their debuts.
Rayo’s Recent Troubles
The Madrid outfit are still licking their wounds after a painful defeat to Celta Vigo last time out. That result did them no favours in their bid to:
- Create breathing space from the relegation battle
- Keep alive their faint hopes of another European adventure
Their defensive options have taken a hit with:
- New boy Mendy suspended
- Mumin sidelined through injury
This leaves gaffer Íñigo Pérez with a selection headache in central defence alongside Lejeune. Either Pathé Ciss (fresh from AFCON duty) or Luiz Felipe will likely get the nod.
Osasuna Finding Form
Alessio Lisci’s men arrive with a spring in their step after snatching a last-gasp victory against Oviedo. That result has them sitting in mid-table, though that position is proper deceptive - they’re just two points off eighth but only three clear of the drop zone.
They’ll be without:
- Catena following his red card
- Moncayola who’s completed a suspension cycle
The Pamplona side will be buzzing to see new acquisition Raúl Moro in the matchday squad, potentially adding some much-needed attacking verve.
Wing Wizards Face Off
Keep your mince pies on the battle of the flanks where De Frutos and Víctor Muñoz will be looking to make the difference. Spain international De Frutos has been in fine fettle with six goals and an assist in La Liga, while Muñoz has burst onto the scene with three goals and one assist.
For two sides desperate to avoid getting dragged into the dog and bone (relegation zone), this is about as six-pointy as it gets in January.