Real Betis vs Rayo Vallecano
La Liga
Saturday
2nd September 2023
Benito Villamarin
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 4 of the La Liga fixture between Real Betis and Rayo Vallecano.
Real Betis vs Rayo Vallecano: Preview
Real Betis form analysis
Betis have made a mixed start to the season, producing 1 win, 1 draw and 1 defeat from their opening 3 games.
They started with an excellent 1-2 away win at Villarreal, coming from behind to seal victory through goals from Perez and William Jose. Betis then produced a solid 0-0 home draw against title contenders Atletico Madrid.
However, their limitations were exposed last time out as they suffered a 2-4 home defeat against Athletic Bilbao after twice letting the lead slip. Betis’ defensive vulnerabilities were a concern.
Overall, it’s been an up and down opening for Betis under new boss Manuel Pellegrini. At their best, Betis have shown they can score against any opponent with clinical finishing.
However, maintaining intensity and focus for 90 minutes is crucial. Their collapse against Bilbao highlighted issues seeing out matches. Finding more control in games will be key to sustaining a push for European qualification.
But the quality in Betis’ squad means they will always pose an attacking threat. Building more solid foundations could help transform them into consistent top six contenders this season.
Rayo Vallecano form analysis
Rayo Vallecano made an excellent start to the new campaign, winning their opening two games before being brought back down to earth last time out.
They began with professional 1-0 away wins over newly-promoted sides Almeria and Granada. Taking their chances and defending resolutely was key to grinding out victories.
However, Rayo’s limitations were then exposed as they were thrashed 0-7 at home by Atletico Madrid. Rayo simply had no answer to Atletico’s relentless pressure as they collapsed after conceding early.
Overall, it’s been a mixed opening set of performances for Rayo. At their best, they’ve proven they can stifle opponents and strike clinically on the counter attack. This pragmatic style can make them tough to beat.
However, the heavy defeat to Atletico highlighted how vulnerable Rayo can be against truly elite opposition. Finding the right balance will be key to avoid shootouts like that again this season.
But two excellent early wins also shows Rayo have enough about them to be competitive this season if they can add some resilience against top sides.
