Real Madrid square off against Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday and Los Blancos manager Rafael Benitez is under intense pressure to claim a victory ahead of the game.
Real Madrid
Real Madrid once again spurned the opportunity to close the gap on Barcelona at the top of the table after suffering a disappointing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Villarreal last time out and the result leaves Los Blancos five points adrift from the summit of the La Liga table.
Now with Barcelona out of action in La Liga this weekend, Madrid will be hopeful of closing down the gap and with a game against struggling Rayo Vallecano up next, Benitez will be fully expected to guide his side to a comprehensive victory on the night.
Injury Doubts: Dani Carvajal, Raphael Varane, Marcelo
Real Madrid Probable Lineup: Keylor Navas, Danilo, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Kroos, Modric, James, Ronaldo, Benzema, Bale
Rayo Vallecano
While Rayo Vallecano had enjoyed a fine campaign last term, their form this season has been very poor and as a result, Paco Jémez’s side are currently languishing in 18th place in the La Liga table.
On current form, Los Franjirrojos look like they will be involved in a bitter battle against relegation this season and with a clash against the mighty Real Madrid up next; Jemez’s men will surely find it very difficult to earn the much coveted three points this weekend.
Injury Doubts: Cristian Alvarez, Ousseynou Cisse, Razvan Rat, Ze Castro, David Cobeno, Tono, Patrick Ebert
Rayo Vallecano Probable Lineup: Yoel, Tito, Amaya, Castro, Nacho, Baena, Trashorras, Lass, Jozabed, Bebe, Guerra
Prediction
Real Madrid have never dropped points against Rayo Vallecano in over 15 years and they most certainly head into Sunday’s clash as overwhelming favourites.
That said, Benitez cannot allow his side to get complacent and make sure that Madrid are able to bounce back with a comprehensive victory.
Real Madrid 3 – 0 Rayo Vallecano
