Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano: Predicted Lineups, Matchday 22, LaLiga

Real Madrid continue their push for the top of the table as they host Rayo Vallecano at the Santiago Bernabéu, with a valuable opportunity to secure points and keep the pressure on in the title race.

Los Blancos are riding a five-match unbeaten streak in LaLiga, but they arrive with wounded pride after a painful loss to Benfica in the Champions League, a defeat that cost them direct qualification to the Round of 16 and exposed lingering defensive issues.

Now, the focus shifts back to domestic competition, where Carlo Ancelotti’s side must remain flawless to stay within striking distance of Barcelona at the summit. Rayo Vallecano’s visit comes at a favorable moment for the hosts, as the Franjirrojos are enduring a rough patch of their own, having suffered three consecutive defeats.

Real Madrid enter Matchday 22 sitting second in the standings with a record of 16 wins, three draws, and two losses, boasting the league’s second-best attack with 45 goals scored. In contrast, Rayo Vallecano sit 16th, managing just five wins, seven draws, and nine losses for a total of 22 points, only one point clear of the relegation zone.

With little margin for error on either side, the stakes are high despite the differing pressures. Rayo will look to disrupt the hosts and turn the Bernabéu into an uncomfortable venue, while Real Madrid must assert their home dominance to avoid dropping points that could prove costly in their pursuit of the LaLiga title.

Match Details

Broadcast Information

Mexico: Sky Sports
United States: ESPN Deportes

Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid:
Thibaut Courtois; Federico Valverde, Dean Huijsen, Raúl Asencio, Álvaro Carreras; Aurélien Tchouaméni, Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler; Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Kylian Mbappé.

Rayo Vallecano:
Batalla; Balliu, Lejeune, Mendy, Pep Chavarría; Óscar Valentín, Pathé Ciss; Isi Palazón, Álvaro García, Akhomach, Jorge de Frutos.