Betdistrict.com
With relegation no longer an issue, in-form Rayo Vallecano can play without pressure when they host an Athletic Bilbao side which is looking to secure the last Champions League spot in La Liga.
Rayo has been in the danger zone for much of this season, despite playing pretty good football. Finally a couple of months ago their positive style started to pay off and now Rayo is one of the most in-form teams in La Liga, climbing up to an incredible 9th place. Vallecano has 3 wins and 1 draw in the last 4 games (scoring 11 goals) and is keeping up the pace even though they have no more worries regarding relegation. Last time out the hosts got a 3-0 win on the road at Granada.
A win for Athletic today would mean securing the 4th place, which sends to the Champions League. Even a draw would be great, as Sevilla is 6 points behind with 3 rounds to go. Bilbao has won 3 of the last 4 games and got a huge win last round against Sevilla, 3-1 at home, which brought them inches close to that 4th spot in the standings. Athletic had a run of bad results in February – March but is now back on track and much of this change in form can be attributed to their new-found goalscoring numbers. Athletic scored in each of the last 5 rounds (10 total goals), including against Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
 |
Wide betting coverage and best asian handicap market at Sbobet. Register now to get great odds and a 150 euro welcome bonus! |
Team news & lineups
Castillo, Carlos and Viera will all miss the game for Vallecano, while Bueno is doubtful. Athletic Bilbao will have to do without the services of Gurpegi, Ekiza and Muniain. Gomez and Sola are questionable.
Rayo Vallecano: Martinez – Arbilla, Castro, Galvez, Nacho – Niguez, Trashorras – Rochina, Bueno, Falque – Larrivey
Athletic Bilbao: Iraizoz – Iraola, Jose, Laporte, Balenziaga – Rico, Iturraspe – Susaeta, Ander, Marcos – Aduriz
This has all the makings of a classic high scoring game and over 2,5 goals bet. Both sides are playing offensive, attractive football and both are in excellent form both overall and in front of goal. Vallecano will be able to play their usual style without any pressure of conceding and losing, while Athletic has the required motivation to up the tempo and avoid making this a “vacation” game. Earlier this season Bilbao defeated Rayo 2-1 at San Mames and I expect at least a similar result this time around. My tip is over 2,5 goals. Prediction: Rayo Vallecano – Athletic Bilbao 2-2.
Pick: over 2,5 goals
Odds: 1.64 @ Sbobet
Stake: 8
Possible profit: 5.12
Event date: 2 May
