Rayo Vallecano vs Elche prediction

THE FORECAST

Rayo carry a massive injury list (ten players out) and their own coach has flagged defensive fragility, while their 2.1 goals conceded per game is the worst of the two sides, making them vulnerable at home. Elche, sitting just one point behind despite being in the relegation zone, arrive with two more rest days and a slightly tighter defensive record (1.9 GA, two clean sheets), and their recent form (DDWLD) suggests solidity rather than ambition. Both teams have a Copa del Rey fixture in three days, increasing the likelihood of cautious, rotated lineups and a low-scoring, tight affair that slightly favours the away side given Rayo's depleted squad.