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Madrid's Bounce-Back Mission: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano—Can They Rebound at the Bernabéu?

31 January 2026

Madrid's Bounce-Back Mission: Real Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano—Can They Rebound at the Bernabéu?
Real Madrid aim to rebound at home against Rayo Vallecano.

Match Preview

The reigning side aims to bounce back from a rough Champions League night.

According to the Spanish daily AS, Real Madrid's lineup for Sunday's visit of Rayo Vallecano at the Bernabeu is set.

The coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, is expected to field: Thibaut Courtois in goal; a back line including Federico Valverde, Raúl Asensio, Din Huisen, and Álvaro Carreira.

In midfield, Arda Güler is tipped to start alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni and Jude Bellingham, while the attack could feature Ibrahim Diaz (or Rodrygo Goes) and Vinícius Jr.

Real Madrid sit second in La Liga with 51 points; Rayo Vallecano are 16th with 22.

Madrid hope to steady themselves after a heavy 4-2 defeat at Benfica in Lisbon, which forced them into a playoff to reach the last-16 in the Champions League.

Kickoff is Sunday at the Bernabeu, and if the stars align Madrid could reassert themselves with a win—though Rayo will not roll over, and even the ball might complain.

Madrid's defense is loud; the ball laughs.

If luck had a goalkeeper, Madrid would be it.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where and when is the match played?

The game is at the Bernabéu on Sunday, in La Liga action.

Who is expected to start in goal for Real Madrid?

Thibaut Courtois is anticipated to start in goal.

What recent result affected Madrid's European campaign?

A 4-2 defeat at Benfica in Lisbon forced Madrid into a playoff for the last-16 in the Champions League.