FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano Preview, Prediction and Lineups

In the La Liga title race, as Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid stumble, Barcelona is ready to reap the benefits. After winning their last three league matches, the Catalan giants now stand on the brink of reclaiming the top spot.

FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano Preview

FC Barcelona welcomes Rayo Vallecano to the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Monday, February 17, 2025, for a pivotal La Liga Matchday 24 showdown, kicking off at 21:00 CET. Barça will look to secure a crucial three points in their La Liga title race, while Rayo aims to cause an upset. This encounter promises an exciting battle as both teams bring their unique styles to the pitch.

With Madrid on 51 points and Atlético on 50, Barcelona’s 48 points put them within striking distance. A win against Rayo Vallecano would put them level with Madrid—but ahead on goal difference. The opportunity is golden, but the task is anything but easy.

Real Madrid have been struggling, failing to win any of their last three La Liga matches. Atletico Madrid’s situation is even worse, managing just one win in their last five. This has allowed Barcelona to quietly build momentum, stringing together three consecutive wins and positioning themselves as serious contenders once again.

However, football has a way of throwing surprises when least expected, and Barcelona’s biggest hurdle isn’t just their rivals’ slip-ups—it’s the team standing in their way on matchday.

Rayo Vallecano, currently 6th with 35 points, have been LaLiga’s most in-form team right now. Four wins in their last five matches make them the most dangerous opponent Barcelona could face at this crucial stage.

History suggests this won’t be a walk in the park. Rayo have proven to be a thorn in Barcelona’s side, winning three of their last nine LaLiga meetings against the Catalans. Barcelona may have four wins in that period, but the fact that two games ended in draws further proves that Rayo know how to frustrate them.

“It’s important to look at the standings, but be aware that there is still a long way to go. The team is confident and they are having fun training and playing. Rayo Vallecano are doing an extraordinary job.”

Hansi Flick

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It’s a game that will test Barcelona’s resolve—are they truly ready to lead LaLiga again, or will Rayo prove to be the ultimate roadblock?

As the saying goes, “When the sun rises, some rejoice while others curse.” For Barcelona, this is their chance to bask in the light at the top of LaLiga—but only if they can overcome the biggest challenge of the moment: Rayo Vallecano.

Score Prediction: FC Barcelona 4-2 Rayo Vallecano

FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano prediction

Lewandowski is in top form, Rayo Vallecano are showing off their high-pressing game as they chase the European places. Expect a tight game; Barca can push it forward with their firepower, but Rayo’s flexibility ensures goals. Prediction: A close win for Barcelona, ​​but it could go either way.

FC Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano Lineups

FC Barcelona Possible XI: Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsí, Iñigo, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski (4-2-3-1)

Rayo Vallecano Possible XI: Batalla; Ratiu, Lejeune, Mumin, Chavarria; Diaz, Ciss; De Frutos, Palazon, A Garcia; Nteka

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