Almeria vs Rayo Vallecano predictions for Friday’s Spanish La Liga opener. The 2023-24 La Liga season will kick off at Power Horse Stadium on Friday night as Almeria host Rayo Vallecano. Will Almeira improved on last season? Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
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Match Live Friday, 11th August at 6:30 pm In:
Almeria vs Rayo Vallecano Predictions
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The Battle Begins at Power Horse Stadium
Key Stats
– Almeria’s Lucas Robertone secured a stellar average BettingTips4You Expert Rating of 7.12 last season.
– Rayo Vallecano are entering their third straight season in La Liga, previously finishing 12th and 11th.
As the sun sets this Friday, the fierce floodlights of Power Horse Stadium will illuminate the season opener of La Liga 2023-24, showcasing a contest between Almeria and Rayo Vallecano. Almeria, after narrowly avoiding relegation last season by finishing 17th, is up against Rayo Vallecano, who managed a comfortable 11th spot with 49 points.
The history is deep for Almeria, who after a long hiatus returned to La Liga for the first time since 2015. Securing their place last season, they’re aiming for the stars this time, trying to overcome a repetitive pattern – they’ve never stayed more than two continuous seasons in the La Liga top flight. And with the recent appointment of Vicente Moreno, previously with Saudi’s Al Shabab, there’s fresh hope in the air.
The Pre-Season and Transfer Activity
In the summer lead-up, Almeria have claimed victory in two of their five friendlies. Their transfer activities were buzzing, notable for acquiring the likes of Luis Suarez, Dion Lopy, and Edgar Gonzalez. However, they had to bid adieu to the talented El Bilal Toure who shifted his allegiance to Atalanta BC.
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On the other side, Rayo Vallecano are steered by the new manager Francisco, familiar with the Spanish circuits having helmed teams like Almeria and Girona. Their pre-season tally stands at one win out of five, but drawing against formidable teams like Porto and Brighton & Hove Albion adds a silver lining. Rayo’s transfer window was punctuated by the arrivals of Florian Lejeune, Alfonso Espino, and Aridane Hernandez, while Fran Garcia marked a significant departure, heading back to Real Madrid.
Match Day Scenario
For Almeria, the injury woes continue with Leo Baptistao and Martin Svidersky ruled out. Yet, fans can expect the new recruits – Suarez, Lopy, and Gonzalez – to be in the thick of the action. Rayo, however, faces no such injury concerns and Francisco has the luxury to choose from a full squad. There’s anticipation around the debut of Lejeune, Espino, and Hernandez.
Key Players to Watch
Almeria:
- Lucas Robertone (Midfielder): A stellar average BettingTips4You Expert Rating of 7.12 for the last season, he’s a player Rayo would be wary of.
- Adrián Embarba (Forward): Embarba, with a 6.92 rating, will be pivotal in the attacking department.
Rayo Vallecano:
- Isi Palazón (Midfielder): With an expert rating touching the 7 mark, Palazón is expected to orchestrate most of Rayo’s plays.
Predictive Analysis for Almeria vs. Rayo Vallecano
1. Match Outcome Prediction: Draw
The grand curtain-raiser for the La Liga 2023–24 season will be an exciting clash between two teams that have recently shown the unpredictable nature of football. Historically, Almeria have struggled to hold their spot in Spain’s top flight, with a pattern of never spending more than two consecutive seasons. Their goal to break this pattern adds an extra layer of motivation, which can impact a game’s dynamics.
Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, seem more settled in La Liga, securing two mid-table finishes in the last two campaigns. Despite this, their preseason hasn’t been impressive, winning only one out of their five matches. But, friendlies can sometimes be deceptive; a drawn match against teams like Porto and Brighton & Hove Albion might indicate a more competitive side than the results suggest.
When it comes to past performances, the weightage is relatively equal, with both teams undergoing significant managerial and player changes. The new season provides a clean slate, but with the evidence provided, it’s logical to predict a draw – a result that reflects the transitional phases both teams are currently in.
2. Correct Score Prediction: 1-1
Supporting the prediction of a draw, a 1-1 scoreline seems the most plausible outcome for a number of reasons. Almeria struggled defensively last season, conceding 65 goals, but also showcased their offensive prowess with 49 goals scored. Rayo’s preseason friendlies, especially the draws against formidable opponents, suggest they can hold their own and are likely to find the net.
Considering Almeria’s home advantage and the excitement of the season opener, they are expected to score. However, Rayo, with their recent La Liga experience and the presence of players like Raul de Tomas, could strike back. Thus, a 1-1 draw sounds like a safe bet, mirroring the closely-matched nature of the tie.
3. Goalscorer Prediction: Luis Suarez (Almeria)
Luis Suarez, not to be mistaken with the Uruguayan legend, has returned to Almeria and is predicted to be their central attacking threat. His loan spell at the club from Marseille last season must have given him the familiarity and comfort to excel. In addition, he has the past credentials, showcasing his prowess in front of goal.
While Rayo Vallecano will be fortified with new signings in their defence, first games can be riddled with teething issues and unfamiliarity among players. This is where Suarez can capitalise. Given the stakes of the match and the spotlight on him as one of Almeria’s significant summer signings, the stage is set for Suarez to make a mark.
Note: While the focus is on Suarez for Almeria, it’s essential not to overlook Raul de Tomas from Rayo. He is expected to lead the attack, and if there’s anyone from the visiting team who can change the game’s dynamics, it’s him. Keep an eye on him for a potential first goalscorer option.
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