Sevilla vs Rayo Vallecano
La Liga
Saturday
7th October 2023
Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the gameweek nine La Liga fixture between Sevilla and Rayo Vallecano.
Sevilla vs Rayo Vallecano: Preview
Sevilla form analysis
Blanquirrojos had a disappointing 1-2 home loss to Girona despite Gudelj equalizing. They returned to winning ways by edging past Las Palmas 1-0 thanks to Lukebakio’s second half strike. A goalless draw at home to Osasuna followed as Sevilla failed to create much. They responded with an emphatic 5-1 home thrashing of Almeria, inspired by a Lukebakio brace. However, defensive issues resurfaced last time out in a 0-1 home defeat to Barcelona after Ramos’ late own goal.
Overall, it’s been an inconsistent spell for Sevilla as Julen Lopetegui integrates a number of new signings. They have showcased real attacking threat at times, scoring 6 goals in the wins over Las Palmas and Almeria. But sloppy errors at the back have cost Sevilla points in tight games against Girona and Barca. If they can retain the danger going forward while eradicating individual mistakes, they still have the quality to push for Champions League qualification this term. But restoring defensive solidity is crucial after this erratic run.
Rayo Vallecano form analysis
Rayo faced a 0-1 home loss to Real Betis, struggling to create against a resolute Betis defense. However, they returned to winning ways with an excellent 2-0 home victory over Alaves thanks to goals from Palazon and De Frutos. Rayo then earned a creditable 1-1 home draw with Villarreal, coming from behind immediately through Kike Perez. They built on that by grinding out a 0-0 away draw at Cadiz last time out. Most recently, Rayo drew an entertaining 2-2 game at home against Mallorca, with Garcia and Falcao on target.
Overall, Rayo have been typically solid, keeping games tight against quality opponents like Betis and Villarreal. At their best, they have shown they can trouble good sides, as evidenced in the win over Alaves. However, a lack of attacking spark has cost them at times, highlighted in the home loss to Betis. If the manager get his key forwards like Falcao fully fit and firing, Rayo have an excellent chance of a top half finish again this season. But finding a more consistent threat in attack is key.
