Espanyol vs Rayo Vallecano: prediction for the La Liga fixture

Espanyol started the Spanish Cup with easy victories over Ponferradina and Palencia. However, Catalan club was eliminated from the tournament at the round of 16. Hosts were beaten by Mallorca. 

After 32 rounds of La Liga Vicente Moreno's men have 10 victories and nine draws, delivering 39 points and a 12th spot in the standings. Team has a terrible offensive record with just 37 goals. After a victory over Celta (1:0) the Budgerigars were defeated by Atletico (1:2). 

Rayo Vallecano got off to a great start in La Liga after a return from Segunda, but their winning form didn't last long. Team also had a decent Spanish Cup campaign, the Vallecans easily went past the first rounds, beating Mirandes and Girona. However, club was unable to make it past the semi-final - team was beaten by Betis. 

After 31 rounds of the current La Liga season the Red Sashes have nine victories and seven draws, delivering 34 points and a 14th spot in the standings. 

Saveljic, Falcao, Merquelanz and Balliuwon't feature in the upcoming match.