The Madrid derby between Rayo Vallecano vs CD Leganés Lineups is more than just a local rivalry; it’s a clash of contrasting football philosophies. As both teams prepare for their upcoming encounter, fans eagerly anticipate the tactical battles and individual performances that could decide the outcome.
Match Overview
Date: Friday, January 31, 2025
Venue: Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas, Madrid
Kick-off: 8:00 PM CET
Rayo Vallecano, under the guidance of coach Francisco Rodríguez, aims to leverage their home advantage and secure vital points in their quest for European qualification. Conversely, CD Leganés, led by Borja Jiménez, seeks to climb the La Liga table and distance themselves from the relegation zone.
Predicted Lineups
Rayo Vallecano (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Augusto Batalla
Defenders: Iván Balliu, Abdul Mumin, Florian Lejeune, Andrei Ratiu
Midfielders: Óscar Valentín, Pathé Ciss
Attacking Midfielders: Jorge de Frutos, Adrián Embarba, Álvaro García
Forward: Sergio Camello
Injuries and Suspensions:
-
Raúl de Tomás (illness) and Jhonatan Montiel (ankle injury) are sidelined until late February.
CD Leganés (5-3-2)
Goalkeeper: Marko Dmitrović
Defenders: Allan Nyom, Kenneth Omeruo, Jorge Sáenz, Sergio González, Riza Durmisi
Midfielders: Rubén Pérez, Iker Undabarrena, Miguel de la Fuente
Forwards: Juan Muñoz, Dani Raba
Injuries and Suspensions:
Enric Franquesa is out with an ACL injury.
Tactical Analysis
Rayo Vallecano’s Approach
Rayo Vallecano is known for their high-pressing game and quick transitions. The team often employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on controlling the midfield and exploiting the flanks.
Pressing: Players like Isi Palazón and Álvaro García lead the press, aiming to disrupt the opponent’s build-up play.
Flank Play: Full-backs Iván Balliu and Andrei Ratiu provide width, supporting wingers in creating crossing opportunities.
Midfield Control: Óscar Valentín acts as a deep-lying playmaker, facilitating transitions from defense to attack.
CD Leganés’ Strategy
Leganés typically adopts a defensive posture, focusing on structure and counter-attacks. Their 5-3-2 formation allows for a compact defense and quick transitions.
Defensive Solidity: The back five ensures minimal space for opponents, making it difficult to penetrate.
Counter-Attacks: Forwards Juan Muñoz and Dani Raba are pivotal in launching swift counter-attacks.
Set-Pieces: With tall defenders like Kenneth Omeruo, Leganés poses a threat during set-piece situations.
Key Players to Watch
Rayo Vallecano
Álvaro García: A dynamic winger known for his pace and ability to cut inside, García is instrumental in Rayo’s attacking plays.
Isi Palazón: Operating as an attacking midfielder, Palazón’s vision and passing can unlock tight defenses.
Florian Lejeune: A central defender who not only provides stability at the back but also poses an aerial threat during set-pieces.
CD Leganés
Juan Muñoz: A forward with a knack for finding space behind defenses, Muñoz is crucial for Leganés’ counter-attacking strategy.
Dani Raba: His creativity and ability to control the tempo make him a vital component in midfield.
Kenneth Omeruo: An experienced center-back, Omeruo’s leadership and defensive skills are key to Leganés’ solidity.
Head-to-Head Record
In their recent encounters, Rayo Vallecano and CD Leganés have had closely contested matches:
September 28, 2024: Rayo Vallecano 1-1 Leganés
May 10, 2021: Rayo Vallecano 1-1 Leganés
February 4, 2019: Rayo Vallecano 1-2 Leganés
October 6, 2018: Leganés 1-0 Rayo Vallecano
These results indicate a balanced rivalry, with both teams capable of securing points.
Match Prediction
Considering Rayo Vallecano’s home advantage and their aggressive playing style, they are slightly favored to win. However, Leganés’ disciplined defense and counter-attacking prowess could pose challenges.
Predicted Score: Rayo Vallecano 2-1 CD Leganés
FAQs
What formation does Rayo Vallecano typically use?
Rayo Vallecano often employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on high pressing and flank play.
Who are the key players for CD Leganés?
Juan Muñoz and Dani Raba are pivotal in attack, while Kenneth Omeruo anchors the defense.
Are there any notable injuries for the upcoming match?
Rayo Vallecano will be without Raúl de Tomás and Jhonatan Montiel. Leganés’ Enric Franquesa is sidelined with an ACL injury.
How have recent matches between these teams ended?
The last two encounters ended in 1-1 draws, highlighting the evenly matched nature of this rivalry.
This Madrid derby promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams bringing their unique styles to the pitch. Fans can look forward to a match filled with tactical battles and individual brilliance.
