Youssef Salaby remains out, and is not due back until December as he continues to recover from a long-term injury. Victor Ruiz and Victor Camarasa return to action here, and the latter could start. Willian Jose could edge Borja Iglesias to a start up top. Martin Marquelanz is expected to return to action later this month, but he will remain out here. Radamel Falcao missed out last time out, but he returns to action here. Other than Falcao, who could replace goalscorer Randy Nteka, few changes are expected given Rayo's fine form.
Real Betis are undefeated in 18 of their last 20 matches (LaLiga). There have been under 2.5 goals scored in Real Betis's last 3 games (LaLiga). Real Betis have seen under 2.5 goals in their last 3 matches against Rayo Vallecano in all competitions. Real Betis have scored at least 2 goals in their last 3 home matches against Rayo Vallecano in all competitions. Real Betis are undefeated in their last 5 matches against Rayo Vallecano in all competitions.
Real Betis continue to enjoy a very solid season despite a quiet summer in terms of incomings. Last time out, Manuel Pellegrini's men drew 1-1 with Bayer Leverkusen to remain second in their Europa League group, still on course to progress to the knockout stages. Before that, Betis bounced back from a defeat to Villarreal with a win over Alaves thanks to Borja Iglesias' late winner, the striker putting together some nice movement to make himself available before taking care of the rest. Betis have won four of their last five games, and interestingly, that's identical form to rivals Rayo Vallecano, who also bounced back from a defeat last time out with a comeback win over Elche thanks to Randy Nteka's winner. Just one point separates these two teams, and it is one of many eye-catching fixtures of the weekend. This is a tough one to call, but given Betis played as late as Thursday and the fact Rayo look hard to stop at the moment, this could well be an entertaining draw. 2:2