Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Prediction 18.12.2024 | LaLiga

• Competition: Spain - LaLiga
• Date: Wednesday, 18th, December 2024
• Kickoff: 20:30 UK / 21.30 CET
• Venue: Estadio de la Ceramica (Villarreal)

Rayo Vallecano will try to stay in the race for European spots as they face off against a Villarreal side in poor form at Estadio de la Cerámica on Wednesday.

Villarreal’s long-standing dream of breaking into the top four took a step back as they disappointed their loyal El Madrigal supporters on Sunday, succumbing to a narrow 1-2 drubbing at the hands of 10-man Real Betis. With that league setback, their second in a row, the Yellow Submarine have dropped to sixth in the La Liga table, but they can take comfort in having two games in hand over Athletic Bilbao, who now hold the last direct Champions League qualification spot.

Having allayed their survival fears in the closing weeks of the last season, finishing five points above the 18th-placed relegated side, Rayo Vallecano are now determined to deliver a much calmer campaign in LaLiga this year. With a respectable 20 points in their pocket from their 16 top-tier outings, the club from the suburbs of Madrid is currently crouched in 13th place, but only six points separate them from Wednesday's opponents Villarreal, who hold Europe's last ticket.

Villarreal vs Rayo Vallecano Betting Tips: X2 (DOUBLE CHANCE)

It's true that Villarreal carries the favorite tag, but their recent form doesn't inspire much confidence, as they haven't tasted victory in any of their last five matches in a row (D2 L3). More specifically, the Yellow Submarine approach Wednesday's contest in low spirits, having been defeated in each of their last three competitive mathes, scoring just one goal in that tough spell. In stark contrast, Rayo Vallecano are bursting with confidence ahead of the midweek visit, having followed up a narrow 1-0 victory over Valencia at the Mestalla by impressively holding champions Real Madrid to a sensational 3-3 draw at the weekend. Inspired by their recent showings, Los Franjirrojos will be hopeful that they can produce another dazzling display against yet another top club, something that seems quite achievable given they have avoided defeat in three of the last four H2Hs with Villarreal. Right now, Rayo Vallecano looks well-equipped to take advantage of the vulnerable state of the men in yellow and grab a big points from a tough away match at El Madrigal.