Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona Prediction & Picks - LaLiga

Prediction published on 8/31/25, 12:02 PM  by Erik Gibbs in LaLiga Picks

Rayo Vallecano will test their mettle against champions Barcelona, whose season has had a chequered beginning. They got off brightly when beating an away side 3–1. They benefited from mistakes by opponents and took their chances effectively, and also hardened up while defending a lead. The victory was, however, followed by a defeat in their second game.

Thus, Rayo hold mid-table position with a points tally of three from two games, a reflection of potential and inconsistency. Their defence has not impressed, but their attack has shown that it can find the net, thereby not at all overestimating them even against the very best sides.

Barcelona enters the tournament in peak shape, hoping to achieve two consecutive zeros. The title-retaining champions kicked off comfortably, winning 3–0, and their superiority and efficiency appeared clear, though enhanced by the away team finishing the match with nine men. In their second game, a more spirited five-goal match that they won 3–2, Barcelona demonstrated that, when needed, there is a capacity to grind it out.

Six goals in two games provide a glimpse of their firepower in attack, and their defence, while at times breached, is organised. Top of the table after two games and two wins, they've laid down a marker for another big season.