Struggling Offenses Face Off in LaLiga Clash

The first match of the year in Spain features two teams with the lowest scoring averages in recent months within LaLiga. Rayo Vallecano has managed to score only once in their last seven matches, while Getafe has failed to find the back of the net in five out of their last six games. Only Oviedo fares worse in this regard.

Vallecas is currently experiencing a mix of euphoria and concern. The euphoria stems from the team’s current standings: they are out of the relegation zone, advancing to the Round of 16 in the Conference League, and still competing in the Copa del Rey. Conversely, there is concern regarding their lack of victories in LaLiga and the signs of fatigue, both physical and mental, that the team displayed in their recent matches of 2025. As coach Iñigo awaits reinforcements, Rayo faces the visit of Getafe without key players De Frutos, Balliu, and Pathé Ciss. Additionally, Alemao is still recovering from a pubalgia injury, while Nteka returns following Angola’s elimination from the Africa Cup.

Getafe travels to Vallecas with the aim of starting the year on a positive note, reminiscent of their performance last January, which helped solidify their position in the league. Coach Bordalás is looking for a repeat of that success, although it will not come easily, as the Rayo stadium is not a favorable venue for the southern Madrid side. To complicate matters, they also face a last-minute absence of striker Borja Mayoral, leaving them without a pure forward aside from Joselu, who is part of Getafe B.

The match will feature an intriguing midfield duel between Unai López and Luis Milla. With a shortage of strikers, this clash presents an opportunity for these playmakers to shine. Unai is in the final year of his contract, attracting interest from several LaLiga clubs, while Milla has another year before he becomes a free agent. Both Rayo and Getafe are hopeful of retaining their key midfield talents for the foreseeable future.