PROBABLE LINE-UPS |
RAYO VALLECANO Cobeno Tito, Arribas, Figueras, Casado Movilla, Fuego Piti, Michu, Bangoura Tamudo | SEVILLA Varas Coke, Spahic, Fazio, Navarro Trochowski, Medel Navas, Rakitic, Armenteros Negredo |
Rayo Vallecano play in their first match since the turn of the year after succumbing to Racing Santander in the Copa del Rey in their final match of 2011. The capital club can now focus their attention on their Liga status which currently has them resting precariously outside the relegation zone in 16th place.
The promoted side have a trio of injury worries ahead of Sevilla's visit to the Vallecas, with Pedro Botelho, Raul Bravo and Dani Pacheco all nursing knocks.
Sevilla's Liga formhas seen them lose their last two matches against Real Madrid and Levante, who are vying for a top four finish along with Marcelino's side.
Top scorer Manu del Moral is absent due to suspension, with Emiliano Armenteros likely to replace the Spaniard. Further attacking issues arise because of injury, with Diego Perotti certain to miss the trip to the capital, whilst Frederic Kanoute is doubtful.
DID YOU KNOW? |
- Rayo have the worst home record of any team in La Liga; the capital outfit have amassed a paltry seven points in the same number of matches.
- Jose Ramon Sandoval's side have lost their last four matches in the league.
- If Rayo are in contention heading into the final five minutes of the game they may have a chance as each of their last three goals have come in the 85th minute or later.
- Sevilla have a poor record at the Vallecas in La Liga, losing seven times in their last 11 visits.
- On their travels Sevilla have been strong in defence, conceding only three goals, but their attack has failed to capitalise, netting on just three occasions.
- Jesus Navas scoring has acted as a curse for the Andalusians - the last three matches that the winger has been on the scoresheet, Sevilla have failed to win the game.
Expect a difficult match for Sevilla against a Rayo side that must get a result. The hosts do have the ability to cause a shock, however, Los Rojiblancos are looking to end a run of three straight defeats in all competitions so these two could cancel each other out,
Editor's Prediction
Rayo Vallecano 1 -1 Sevilla