Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano Match Prediction: Real Madrid turn their attention to domestic action after a Champions League win over Inter Milan, as they meet Rayo Vallecano in a key La Liga 2026-27 fixture at home. Jose Mourinho’s side remains fourth in the league standings, having bagged three wins. After enduring their first La Liga defeat to Real Betis, Real Madrid hope to bounce back against Rayo, who are reeling in 14th place on the La Liga table, having managed just one victory so far this season.
Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano Team News
Real Madrid head into the derby with Kylian Mbape, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde and Thibaut Courtois available. Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Güler and Bernardo Silva also return after missing the Champions League win over Inter through suspension.
Raul Asencio has been included after recovering from a rectus femoris injury, while Endrick could make a limited return. Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo remain in individual recovery.
Rayo face a tougher selection puzzle. Jorge de Frutos and Fran Perez are suspended, while Andrei Ratiu is doubtful after an ankle knock.
Vertrouwd, Isi Palazon, Randy Nteka, Ivan Balliu and goalkeeper Augusto Batalla are among those reported unavailable through injury. Sergio Camello and Unai López remain important attacking outlets for Beñat San Jose.
Real Madrid Form
Real Madrid suffered their first league defeat of the campaign last weekend, losing 1-0 to Real Betis after an otherwise positive start. Troy Parrott scored the only goal, while Mbappe had a stoppage-time penalty saved.
Mourinho’s side responded strongly in midweek, defeating Inter Milan 2-1 in the Champions League, with Mbappé and Valverde on target. The result should restore momentum before their return to domestic action.
Rayo Vallecano Form
Rayo arrive with renewed confidence after finally securing their first league victory of the season. They defeated Racing Santander 3-2 in their previous outing, with Sergio Camello continuing his excellent early-season run in front of goal.
The Madrid side had previously endured difficult away trips to Sevilla and Barcelona without collecting points, making the Racing victory an important psychological lift. Rayo now face a far greater challenge at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano Prediction
Real Madrid should have enough attacking quality to control the contest, particularly with Mbappe, Vinicius and Bellingham leading the frontline. Rayo’s injury and suspension problems could further tilt the balance towards the hosts. However, their recent 3-2 victory should give them belief.
Score prediction: Real Madrid 3-1 Rayo Vallecano
Who can be the best player in Real Madrid vs Rayo?
Kylian Mbappe looks the strongest candidate to make the difference. The French forward already scored against Inter and possesses the pace to punish Rayo’s depleted defence in counters.
