Athletic Club – Rayo Vallecano

Athletic Club host Rayo Vallecano in what promises to be a decisive clash for the Basque side, who sit ninth with seven points after two wins, a draw and two defeats, edging a modest 7‑6 goal difference. Rayo, languishing in sixteenth place on four points from one win, one draw and three losses, have struggled defensively, conceding 14 times while scoring eight. The home team will look to extend their narrow superiority in the table and capitalize on their positive goal balance, whereas the visitors will need to tighten up at the back to avoid slipping further down the standings. Historically the two have met sparingly, but the current form suggests Athletic have the edge heading into the encounter.