Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas hosts a fiery Jornada 6 encounter as Rayo Vallecano — beaten 2–0 by Real Madrid in Jornada 5 — face Athletic Club. Athletic won 3–1 against Elche in their last outing and arrive with their Basque firepower intact. Nico Williams continues to be one of La Liga's brightest stars, with Gorka Guruzeta providing the striker nous and Iñaki Williams adding veteran experience.
Rayo Vallecano: injury concerns and predicted XI
Daniel Cárdenas starts in goal. Florian Lejeune and Marash Kumbulla anchor the centre-back positions. Isi Palazón is Rayo's most creative player from the left side. Raúl de Tomás leads the attack with Sergio Camello providing support.
Rayo Vallecano Predicted Starting XI & Lineup · 4-4-2
Official lineups confirmed 1 hour before kick-off.
Athletic Club: team news and outlook
Unai Simón, Spain's first-choice goalkeeper, starts for Athletic. Aymeric Laporte brings elite quality to the centre of defence. Oihan Sancet drives from midfield with Ruiz de Galarreta alongside him. Nico Williams and Álex Berenguer provide the pace and directness from wide positions. Gorka Guruzeta leads the attack.
Key tactical battle
Isi Palazón's energy versus Athletic's defensive discipline. Nico Williams's direct running against Rayo's fullbacks is the key duel — if Rayo can stop Williams on the ball, they can frustrate Athletic. If Williams is given room to run, it will be a long night for the hosts.
Head-to-head record
Rayo and Athletic have produced memorable La Liga battles at Vallecas over the years. Athletic's recent form makes them slight favourites but Rayo's ferocity at home is always a factor.
Prediction
1–2. Athletic Club's quality, particularly Nico Williams and Guruzeta, should be decisive.