Barcelona - Rayo Vallecano predictions and free betting tips [19/05/2024]

On Sunday, 19 May, as part of Matchday 37 of La Liga, 'Barcelona' will host 'Rayo Vallecano'. Xavi's team currently sits second, four points ahead of 'Girona', while 'Rayo' is 15th and has effectively secured their spot in the elite division.

Stadium

The match will be held in Barcelona at the Olympic Stadium.

Barcelona

This week 'Barcelona' maintained their second place in the La Liga standings by defeating the relegated 'Almeria' (2:0). Fermin Lopez not only scored twice but also stood out as one of the few bright sparks for the Catalans. After losing El Clasico to 'Real Madrid' at Bernabeu on 21 April (3:2), 'Barca' then secured three wins in four rounds – against 'Valencia' (4:2), 'Real Sociedad' (2:0), and 'Almeria' this week.

Despite losing twice to 'Girona' this season (2:4 in the first round and 4:2 in the second leg), they hold a 4-point advantage over the white and maroon team with two rounds to go in the league. Thus, 'Barcelona' will secure the silver medals with a win on Sunday, regardless of Michel's side's result. It is worth noting that Xavi's team ranks only fourth overall in points earned at home (43 in 18 home matches, 40 goals scored, 21 conceded). 

Rayo Vallecano

This season, 'Rayo Vallecano' has been a big disappointment for their fans but will remain in La Liga, courtesy of even poorer performances by 'Cadiz', 'Granada', and 'Almeria', with the latter two already officially relegated. Despite being 15th in the standings, the Madrid side has a comfortable 6-point lead over the 'Pirates', needing just one point in the final two rounds to secure their La Liga spot.

This week, the red and whites beat 'Granada' 2:1, despite Trejo's early red card in the 8th minute, ending a three-match winless streak with losses to 'Villarreal' (3:0) and 'Almeria' (0:1). At the same time, 'Rayo' performs quite well away from home, collecting 18 points in 18 away matches (11th best in the division, 11 goals scored, 19 conceded). 

Head-to-Head

In their last five matches against 'Barcelona', 'Rayo' is undefeated, having won three times, with the points shared earlier this season (1:1).

Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano Prediction

'Barca' has practically guaranteed themselves the silver medals of the championship, and there is no doubt that tonight the Catalans will delight their fans with one last home win of the season. 'Rayo' has been in a crisis in recent weeks and lacks tournament motivation – their spot in the La Liga is essentially guaranteed. My prediction – a triumph for the favourite with a -1.5 handicap.

Total Prediction

'Barca' will want to treat their fans to a vivid victory, so they will aim to score multiple goals. I bet on 'Barcelona's individual total over 2 goals.

Corners Prediction

'Barcelona' outclasses their opponent, will play on home turf, and seize the initiative from the start. I bet on 'Barcelona' to win by corners with a -2.5 handicap.

Yellow Cards Prediction

'Rayo Vallecano' will have to defend a lot, meaning the guests will likely commit more fouls. I bet on a win for the Madrid side by yellow cards.

Score Prediction

I bet on a score of 3:0 in favour of 'Barcelona'.