Separated by just a point after three rounds, Osasuna host Rayo Vallecano as both strive for consistency in the early stages of the La Liga season.
Match News and Current Form
All three of Osasuna’s matches in La Liga this season have ended 1-0 (W1, L2), most recently losing to an Espanyol side they finished ten points better off than last term. Something that boss Alessio Lisci will no doubt be boosted by is his side’s form at home, with their five-match winning streak in the league at El Sadar their best such run since 2005. Four successive clean sheets therein also represents their best run without conceding at home in La Liga since December 1993!
It’s been a decent start to the season for Rayo Vallecano, especially considering the quality of opposition they’ve had to face (W1, D1, L1). Despite losing their first away game of the league season to Athletic Club (1-0), Rayo responded with an impressive 1-1 draw at home against reigning champions Barcelona. That result should help the Red Sashes hit the road with renewed confidence as it was their impressive away form that charged them into the European spots last season, with their last ten league trips yielding five wins (L5).
Head-to-Head History
Osasuna have failed to win any of the last three La Liga H2Hs, making this their worst run against Rayo since going four without a win in April 2012. El Sadar remains a tough venue for Rayo, who’ve emerged victorious from just one of their last 13 top-flight trips to Osasuna (D4, L8).
Hot Stats and Streaks
Pre-round, no side in La Liga have managed fewer shots on target than Osasuna (seven).
There have been just three goals scored across Osasuna’s games this season - the least of any side in La Liga.
Heading into the weekend, only Fulham (three) have conceded more penalties than Rayo (two) across Europe’s top-five leagues this season.
Rayo have conceded one goal or fewer in each of their last five La Liga games.
Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Osasuna’s top scorer last season, and third overall in La Liga, Ante Budimir has scored three of Osasuna’s last four home league goals. With a goal and assist to his name already this season, all eyes should be on Isi Palazón, who has netted twice in his last five H2H appearances, both times grabbing the decisive goal in 2-1 victories.
Osasuna will be without Moi Gómez, whilst Abdul Mumin and Luiz Felipe look set to miss out for Rayo.
For all the latest team news, please check the Flashscore match centre.
Betting Analysis
Go for Rayo to impress once more on the road and grab a win accompanied by a goal from Palazón.
Author: Luke Bridle