Celta Vigo vs Rayo Vallecano

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On Sunday afternoon, Celta Vigo will host Rayo Vallecano at the Estadio Municipal de Balaidos in a crucial clash between two teams fighting to avoid relegation in Spain's top tier.

Currently positioned 17th in the table, Celta holds a five-point advantage over 18th-placed Cadiz. Meanwhile, Rayo sits in 15th place, maintaining a seven-point buffer from the relegation zone as the season reaches its climax.

Following Rafael Benitez's departure, Celta appointed Claudio Giraldez as their new manager earlier this month, promoting the 36-year-old from his coaching role with the club's reserve team. Giraldez enjoyed a victorious start to his tenure, leading Celta to a 2-1 triumph over Sevilla on March 17, marking six points from their last three outings.

While still grappling with relegation concerns, Celta's recent form offers some optimism, positioning them five points clear of the danger zone. Another win this weekend could extend their buffer from the bottom three.

Despite their prolonged presence in La Liga since 2012, Celta faces a challenging campaign this season. Their home record ranks fourth-worst in the league, garnering only 13 points from 14 matches. Conversely, Rayo has demonstrated resilience on the road, securing 16 points from 15 away games.

Rayo comes into this competition fresh off a 2-0 triumph against Real Betis, where Florian Lejeune and Sergio Camello secured goals at Estadio de Vallecas.

The team had previously endured a nine-match winless streak in Spain's premier division before finally clinching a victory before the international break. This win elevated them to 29 points, positioning them in 15th place.

Rayo presently holds a seven-point buffer from the relegation zone and aims to secure their third consecutive season in the top tier. Since their return to La Liga from the Segunda Division in 2021, they've finished 12th and 11th respectively.

Recently, the capital club underwent a managerial change, appointing Inigo Perez to replace Francisco last month. The 36-year-old has overseen one win, two draws, and two losses in his five matches in charge.

Rayo hasn't tasted victory against Celta in six encounters in Spain's top flight, with their last win against them dating back to January 2019. However, they managed to split points in a goalless draw earlier this season.

Celta faces a challenge with Javi Manquillo, Mihailo Ristic, and Carlos Dotor sidelined due to injuries, while Williot Swedberg and Renato Tapia are uncertain for the upcoming match.

Due to Manquillo's injury, there will be at least one change in the starting lineup from their previous game against Sevilla, with Carles Perez likely to step in after his recent goal.

Jorgen Strand Larsen, who scored his 10th league goal against Sevilla, is expected to lead Celta's attack once again alongside Iago Aspas and Jonathan Bamba.

On the other hand, Rayo will miss Kike Perez, Aridane Hernandez, and Diego Mendez due to fitness concerns. Additionally, Raul de Tomas and Lejeune are suspended for accumulating yellow cards against Real Betis.

Camello is anticipated to replace De Tomas upfront, while Andrei Ratiu is likely to step in for Lejeune in the defense.