Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona Prediction & Tips
It has been a positive week for Rayo Vallecano, who thrashed Belarusian side Neman 4-0 on Thursday to secure their place in the UEFA Conference League main draw. Their first appearance in Europe in 25 years came thanks to an impressive eighth-place finish last season, while three wins in four competitive games in the 2025/26 campaign (one defeat) show that confidence continues to grow under Iñigo Pérez. Rayo competed well in last week’s 1-0 defeat to Athletic Club, but bouncing back could be tricky, as they have won just one of their last eight home games in La Liga (five draws, two defeats).
Barcelona had to work hard for their victory on matchday two, coming back from 2-0 down to beat newly promoted Levante 3-2 thanks to an own goal in added time. Hansi Flick’s side have scored exactly three goals in each of their last three league games, underlining the formidable attacking power at the German coach’s disposal. Their attacking efficiency makes Barça favourites to extend their away winning streak to ten games in La Liga, something they have not achieved since January 2013.
