Osasuna Aims to Rebound Against Rayo Vallecano in Crucial La Liga Clash

PAMPLONA, Spain — Club Atlético Osasuna will face Rayo Vallecano in a high-stakes La Liga match at El Sadar Stadium on Sunday, January 19, 2025. The game marks Osasuna’s first home match of the new year as they seek to reverse a seven-game winless streak in the league. Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano aims to extend their positive momentum and climb higher in the standings.

Osasuna, managed by Vicente Moreno, enters the match with mixed fortunes. Despite their recent struggles in La Liga, the team remains just five points away from European qualification spots. Their confidence received a boost after a thrilling Copa del Rey victory against Athletic Bilbao earlier in the week. Moreno described the cup win as a “great match” and hopes it will provide the energy needed to reignite their league campaign.

However, Osasuna faces challenges, including the absence of key player Bryan Zaragoza, who is still recovering from injury. The team will rely on striker Ante Budimir, who recently became the club’s all-time top foreign scorer with 55 goals. Budimir expressed pride in his achievement, stating, “Sometimes things come in life without knowing, and I’m proud to be part of a club with over 100 years of history.”

Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, arrives in Pamplona with a stronger recent record in La Liga, having gone five matches unbeaten, though only two of those were wins. The team, led by Iñigo Pérez, is determined to improve their attacking output, as their forwards have struggled to find the net consistently. Pérez, familiar with El Sadar, knows the challenges of playing in Pamplona, where Osasuna has lost only twice this season.

Historically, Osasuna has dominated this fixture at home, winning all three encounters since both teams returned to La Liga. However, Rayo has enjoyed success in Vallecas, making this clash a battle of contrasting dynamics. The match promises intensity, with both teams known for their physical and entertaining style of play.

Osasuna’s probable lineup includes Aitor Fernández in goal, supported by Areso, Catena, Boyomo, and Abel Bretones in defense. Midfield duties will likely fall to Iker Muñoz, Torró, and Moi Gómez, with Rubén García, Aimar Oroz, and Budimir leading the attack. Rayo Vallecano is expected to field a strong starting XI, featuring Batalla, Ratiu, Mumin, Lejeune, and Pep Chavarría in defense, with Isi Palazón, Embarba, and Jorge de Frutos providing attacking support.

As both teams vie for crucial points, the match at El Sadar is set to be a thrilling encounter, with European aspirations and league survival at stake.