What a surprise! Barcelona is one goal down, something totally unexpected and I think it is the fault of the goalkeeper because he ought to save that ball. If this stands, it will be very devastating for gamblers because everyone gave Barcelona direct win as the odd was very attractive. I don't see any anxiety on the side of Rayo Vallecano so I feel this match might be a big surprise to all. However, the goal is too early so I doubt if they will be able to sustain it till full time as they are playing away.
Barcelona have a losing record against Rayo Vallecano in the past. But I don't expect Barcelona to lose in this match at all. I bet Barcelona to win. I hope Barcelona will not disappoint me today.
Rayo Vallecano lead 1-0 just 9 minutes into the match. Vallecano took the lead with a goal from midfielder Unai Lopez. But overall performance of Barcelona is not to my liking. In 35 minutes, this team managed to make only 4 shots. As Barcelona are already trailing 1-0. So Barcelona should play attacking strategy. And 1-1 in the first half. In the second half, Rayo Vallecano will play completely defensively and try to finish the match 1-0. Rayo Vallecano's defensive strategy will make it more difficult for Barcelona's players to score.
In this match I also bet on Barcelona's victory, but after seeing Barcelona's game in the first half, I had to accept the fact that my bet lost. The first half of Barcelona's game was very bad, their defense was very weak.
With a goal behind, of course every Rayo Vallecano player will take advantage of the time. They will try hard to play disciplined in the second half, and Rayo's defense in the first half was very solid, they were disruptive and successful. Which made Pedri, Torres, and Lewandowski unable to do much in the first half. Flick must make important changes in the second half, otherwise Barcelona may not win this match.
Barcelona in the second half must try to slow down the game a little. Because Rayo's defense is very tight, especially in midfield. That way they can try to pull Rayo's block. Because Barcelona's game in the first half was too direct, making their game chaotic.