Real Madrid vs. Rayo Vallecano: 10 Bold Predictions for the Bernabeu

After their first four games of the season, Real Madrid have gathered seven points out of a possible 12. In their first two games, they scored 10 goals, getting right back to where they left off last season.

However, the last two games have proved more worrisome for Madridistas as they lost to Levante and shared spoils with Racing Santander, both away games.

It was the first time, under Jose Mourinho, that Madrid had dropped points in back to back games and the first time they had failed to score in consecutive games.

Following the match against Racing, Jose Mourinho voiced his concerns to the press about losing points during away matches (while also subtly criticizing Racing’s tactics). Luckily for the Madrid faithful, Barcelona drew two of their first four matches and sit just one point above the Merengues.

This Saturday, Real Madrid have a chance to get back to winning ways against Rayo Vallecano at the Bernabeu. It will come as a must win for Los Blancos, as they look to keep the pace with Barca early on this campaign.

So come kick off time this weekend, here are a few things to expect from Madrid’s second home game of the season. 

Real Madrid will still be without Portuguese duo Pepe and Fabio Coentrao.

Both players picked up muscle tears in Madrid’s 1-0 loss to Levante.

Madrid will miss Pepe anchoring the backline as well as the versatility of Coentrao. Ramos will likely step in at center back

Mourinho selected an unusual first 11 against Racing.

Because of being without Pepe and Coentrao through injury, Mourinho handed rare starts to Lassana Diarra, Raphael Varane and Callejon, leaving Sergio Ramos and Di Maria on the bench.

Mourinho has since been criticized for such tactical choices and will likely start both Ramos and Di Maria in place of Varane and Callejon. 

After shockingly being held scoreless in 180 minutes of play, Madrid will be looking to make a statement. 

The last two matches have been quite uncharacteristic of a team that scored over 100 league goals last season.

Expect a thrilling attacking display at the Bernabeu. 

After a disappointing display by his own high standards, Ronaldo will be looking to make amends.

If there are to be goals, you’d be safe to bet that Cristiano will be in on the action, and with him looking to improve his already impressive goal tally, Ronaldo will be firing on all cylinders. 

He seems to score in bundles so don't put another hat trick past the Portuguese superstar.

Much to Mourinho’s despair, the last two games have seen “lesser” teams out to stifle Madrid’s game play.

The defensive minded and “time wasting” tactics will be in full effect as Rayo look to absorb the inevitable Madrid onslaught. 

They will have to deal with lengthy stretches of Madrid possession and figure out how to break down the Madrid attack. 

Ozil has not been playing at the level we all know he can for the last two games.

He was brought on for the last twenty minutes in the 1-0 defeat to Levante and looked frustrated during the tie with Racing. 

The young German will be looking to pull the strings in attack and help Madrid secure a crucial three points. 

After a dreadful performance in the 1-0 loss to Levante two weeks ago, Di Maria was pulled from the starting 11 against Racing Santander. 

He was brought on at halftime and looked sharp with a powerful shot on goal.

Expect Di Maria to finish what he started and prove he deserves a spot on Jose Mourinho’s team sheet.

With Pepe’s absence Mourinho will likely play Ramos and Carvalho as center backs.

Expect to see Madrid dominate possession, forcing Rayo to try to play on the break.

Casillas will be solid if anything does get through and Madrid will maintain the clean sheet. 

When is he ever?

After the match the Special One will sing praise for his team’s performance but slip a subtle jab at the consistency of the officials.

After two consecutive games without goals, Los Blancos will come out flying on Saturday.

The comforts of the Bernabeu will lift the Merengues to an emphatic victory, sparing them the sharp words and doubt of critics and fans alike.