Villarreal take on the visitors Rayo Vallecano in the postponed round 12 match of Spanish LaLiga. The match will be played on Wednesday, December 18th at Estadio de la Ceramica (Villarreal).
Villarreal enjoyed several bright years under Unai Emery, winning the Europa League and reaching the Champions League semifinals. Even after Emery left for Aston Villa, Villarreal managed a 5th-place finish in La Liga in 2023. However, last season started poorly, and stability only returned after Marcelino's return to the dugout. Despite this, they narrowly lost the race for 7th place (and a European qualification spot) to Real Betis. This season has been better overall, but problems have surfaced since November. The team has endured exciting yet frustrating draws (2-2 against Osasuna and Girona), an embarrassing Copa del Rey exit at the hands of Pontevedra, and league losses to Athletic Bilbao (0-2) and Real Betis (1-2).
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Rayo Vallecano look to build momentum. The "Bees" are a modest yet distinctive side whose primary goal is staying in La Liga. Last season, they barely survived, finishing 17th with 38 points, just one per matchday. However, their cushion over 18th-place Cádiz was a comfortable five points. Determined to improve, the Madrid-based club brought in James Rodríguez, whose talent once shone brightly in South America. Unfortunately, he has struggled to make an impact in La Liga. Still, under Iñigo Pérez, Rayo has managed to collect points and even pull off some wins. The winter period began with consecutive away victories: one in the Copa del Rey against Unionistas Salamanca and another in La Liga against Valencia. Most recently, Rayo even held Real Madrid to a draw, showing their resilience and tactical discipline.
In 2023, Rayo won two of their head-to-head matches against Villarreal and drew one. However, they were thrashed 3-0 away from home in April. The "Yellow Submarine" is still the favorite on paper but has shown signs of decline. Meanwhile, Rayo has been performing well recently and could capitalize on Villarreal’s struggles. A bet on the visitors to avoid defeat (double chance: draw or Rayo win) appears to offer good value. Holding Real Madrid to a draw was a significant achievement for Rayo, emphasizing their ability to frustrate even elite opponents. Villarreal’s recent lack of attacking sharpness suggests that the visitors could secure a point here.
Prediction for the match: Rayo Vallecano not to lose (X2).
