FC Barcelona is scheduled to take on Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys (Montjuïc). With the season rapidly winding down, Barcelona will be seeking to consolidate their claim to second while Rayo Vallecano strives to keep its unbeaten run going.
Barcelona Form and News
Barcelona travel for this fixture straight from a brilliant 4-1 victory over Sevilla but played with ten men for the chunk of the game. A feat precipitated by goals from Robert Lewandowski, Fermín López, Raphinha, and Eric Garcia bore testimony to their attacking prowess.
Nonetheless, several important absences will hit Barcelona;
• Fermín López (Suspended) – Who was red carded against Sevilla.
• Marc-André ter Stegen (Injured) – The first-choice goalkeeper is still on the sidelines.
• Andreas Christensen (Injured) – The Danish defender will not feature.
• Marc Bernal (Injured) – Another midfield option missing.
• Ronald Araújo (Doubtful) – The center-back is recovering but remains doubtful.
Expected Lineup of Rayo Vallecano (4-2-3-1):
Dimitrievski; Balliu, Mumin, Lejeune, Espino; Óscar Valentín, Ciss; Isi Palazón, Álvaro García, Jorge de Frutos; Sergi Guardiola.
Head-to-Head & Tactical Preview
The last encounter between these two sides ended in a 1-1 draw, wherein it was quite evident that Barcelona was not in a position to break through the disciplined defense of Rayo Vallecano. On historical grounds, Rayo Vallecano has made a tough opponent for Barcelona since they employ a high-intensity pressing game that disturbs the rhythm.
Barcelona would be expected to take control of possession while Rayo would rely on making their counter-attacks. Should Barcelona get an early opening goal, they may control the game, but if Rayo manages to frustrate them, it is going to be a long night for the home side.