Rayo Vallecano vs Athletic Club

Rayo Vallecano welcome Athletic Bilbao to Vallecas on October 10, with both clubs hunting for a foothold in a tightly bunched mid-table. Rayo sit 13th on seven points from seven games, while Athletic are just above them in 10th with eight, meaning three points would carry real early-season weight for either side. Rayo's form has been erratic, with wins over Racing Santander and Espanyol sandwiched between heavy losses to Barcelona and Real Madrid, and their defence has leaked goals at nearly three per game. Athletic have steadied since an opening-day stumble, going unbeaten in four with victories over Celta Vigo and Atletico Madrid either side of draws with Elche and Alaves. Keep an eye on Nico Williams and Oihan Sancet for the visitors, and a returning Isi Palazón for Rayo. History leans heavily toward Athletic Bilbao, who are unbeaten in the last five league meetings between these two. Our prediction: 1-2