Rayo Vallecano faces Espanyol after Conference League triumph

Rayo Vallecano faces Espanyol in a crucial La Liga fixture on Thursday, just after securing a spot in the UEFA Conference League semi-finals. The team's European success contrasts with their domestic form, having not won in their last four league games and currently sitting 15th in the standings, a mere three points clear of the relegation zone with seven matches left. This upcoming match at the Estadio de Vallecas presents an opportunity to boost their league position and ensure survival.

Espanyol arrives with confidence, boasting a four-match winning streak against Rayo Vallecano. However, their own league performance has been dismal, with 14 consecutive matches without a victory since the start of the year. They are currently 12th in the table, but a win could see them level with eighth-placed Getafe. Despite their historical advantage over Rayo, Espanyol's recent form indicates struggles away from home, while Rayo Vallecano has been strong at the Estadio de Vallecas recently, remaining unbeaten in six of their last seven home fixtures across all competitions.