Football Bet of the Day for Thursday features Atletico Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano. Discover our expert pick with full analysis.
One of our trusted experts, known for his deep knowledge of Italian football, has picked this game as Today’s Best Bet, and the selection makes plenty of sense.
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Match: Atletico Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano
Expert: Wolfgang Shotten; Sports journalist at BettingTips4You
Atletico Madrid to Win & Both Teams to Score
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13/5 - odds when tipped |  |
Reasoning Atletico Madrid’s firepower at home remains their strongest weapon, particularly with Alvarez and Griezmann leading the line. While Rayo's form has dipped, they can still cause problems against shaky defences. This combination points towards a win for the hosts but with the visitors likely to get on the scoresheet as well. | |
Key Stats:
- Atletico Madrid have avoided defeat in all 17 of their most recent games against Rayo Vallecano, winning 13 of those encounters.
- Only one of Atletico’s 16 home league matches this term has ended in defeat, with 11 of those being victories.
- Rayo Vallecano have shipped seven goals in their last two away fixtures and have just one win in nine La Liga games.
Rationale
After a frustrating few weeks filled with painful exits from both the Champions League and Copa del Rey, Atletico Madrid return to their fortress in the capital looking to reignite some form of consistency. Despite falling short on multiple fronts recently, their record at the Metropolitano remains formidable—just one league defeat in sixteen appearances there this season underlines their home dominance.
Julian Alvarez continues to be Atleti’s primary threat in front of goal, registering 14 strikes across 32 league appearances. The expected return of Antoine Griezmann adds further attacking potency, as the Frenchman prepares to slot in alongside Alvarez in a bid to restore Atletico’s cutting edge. Rodrigo De Paul’s reintroduction in midfield could further stabilise the hosts, who have struggled for rhythm but not for commitment.
Their opponents, Rayo Vallecano, arrive in poor shape, having collected just a single win in their last nine La Liga outings. Despite occasional sparks—such as the 2-0 success at Alaves—their vulnerabilities have been ruthlessly exposed in heavy losses to Espanyol and Athletic Club. Conceding seven goals across their last two away trips, Rayo’s defensive shortcomings remain a key concern.
Nonetheless, Rayo often find a way to create chances. Pedro Diaz and Unai Lopez can orchestrate dangerous moments, even against stronger sides. Atletico’s recent late collapse at Las Palmas demonstrated their susceptibility to lapses in concentration, particularly towards the end of games. That frailty opens the door for a spirited but inconsistent visiting side to sneak a goal.
Simeone’s team should still come out on top—especially given their 17-match unbeaten streak against Rayo—but a clean sheet might be too much to expect. A combination of high-quality attackers and defensive sloppiness on both ends hints towards a BTTS outcome, with the home win standing firm as the safer result.
Best bet – Atletico Madrid to Win & Both Teams to Score
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