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Barcelona vs The Spanish La Liga 2025/26 season continues with an exciting matchup today as defending champions Barcelona travel to Madrid to face Rayo Vallecano at the Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas. The match, scheduled for Sunday at 8:30 PM, is part of the third round of the league campaign.
Barcelona enters this encounter with maximum points from their opening two games, while Rayo will look to challenge the champions after earning three points in their first two matches.
Match Details
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Fixture: Rayo Vallecano vs Barcelona
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Competition: La Liga – Round 3, 2025/26 Season
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Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
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Kick-off Time: 8:30 PM (local time)
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Venue: Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas, Madrid
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Broadcasting Channels: beIN SPORTS (exclusive rights), Sky Sports, plus other international sports networks.
Barcelona: Chasing Another Title
⚽ Perfect Start
The Catalan giants have made a strong start to their title defense, winning their first two matches in La Liga. With six points collected, they sit second in the standings, just behind the early leaders on goal difference.
🧠 Tactical Balance
Barcelona’s squad has shown depth and balance, with Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Gavi in form. Their combination of youth and experience underlines why they remain favorites for yet another domestic crown.
Rayo Vallecano: Aiming for an Upset
🔥 Mixed Start
Rayo Vallecano has earned three points from their first two games, placing them eighth in the league table. Their victory in the opening week showed promise, but they know facing Barcelona will be a test of another level.
🏟 Home Advantage
Playing at Vallecas gives Rayo a boost. Their compact stadium often creates an intimidating atmosphere, and the fans will be eager to see their team push the champions to their limits.
Key Players to Watch
⭐ Barcelona
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Robert Lewandowski: The Polish striker continues to be Barcelona’s main scoring threat.
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Pedri: The midfield orchestrator, creating chances and dictating tempo.
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Raphinha: His pace and creativity on the wing can break defensive lines.
⭐ Rayo Vallecano
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Álvaro García: Known for his speed and direct play, crucial in counter-attacks.
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Isi Palazón: The creative spark in midfield, capable of delivering key passes.
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Stole Dimitrievski: The goalkeeper will need to be at his very best to deny Barça’s relentless attack.
Head-to-Head Record
Barcelona has historically dominated this fixture, but Rayo Vallecano has managed surprise results at Vallecas in recent years. Matches here are often intense, with Rayo refusing to back down against stronger opponents.
Tactical Preview
🔵 Barcelona
Expect Barcelona to control possession, press high, and create chances through their midfield dominance. Their wide play, particularly through Raphinha and Balde, will be key.
🔴 Rayo Vallecano
Rayo will likely defend compactly and aim to exploit Barcelona on the counterattack. Their quick transition play and home crowd energy could make things tricky for the champions.
The Venue: Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas
Though not the biggest stadium in La Liga, Vallecas is one of the most atmospheric. With a capacity of just over 14,500, it’s known for its tight stands and passionate fans, which often give Rayo an edge in home fixtures.
Predicted Lineups
Barcelona (4-3-3)
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GK: Ter Stegen
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DEF: Koundé, Araujo, Christensen, Balde
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MID: Pedri, De Jong, Gavi
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ATT: Raphinha, Lewandowski, João Félix
Rayo Vallecano (4-2-3-1)
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GK: Dimitrievski
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DEF: Balliu, Lejeune, Mumin, Espino
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MID: Óscar Valentín, Unai López
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ATT: Isi Palazón, Trejo, Álvaro García
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FW: Falcao
Match Prediction
Barcelona are heavy favorites given their form and quality. Rayo may put up a fight at home, but it’s hard to see them containing the champions for 90 minutes.
Predicted Score: Rayo Vallecano 1-3 Barcelona
Conclusion
The Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano clash is set to be one of the highlights of the third round of La Liga. While the champions are expected to extend their perfect start, Rayo’s passionate home crowd and fighting spirit could make it a memorable encounter. Either way, fans are in for an exciting evening of Spanish football.
FAQs
1. What time does the Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano match start?
The match kicks off at 8:30 PM local time on Sunday, August 31, 2025.
2. Where is the game being played?
At the Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas in Madrid, the home of Rayo Vallecano.
3. Which channels will broadcast the match?
The match will be shown on beIN SPORTS, Sky Sports, and other international sports channels.
4. Who is Barcelona’s key player for this game?
Robert Lewandowski, backed by midfield talents like Pedri and Gavi, is expected to lead the attack.
5. What was Rayo Vallecano’s last result?
Rayo earned three points from their opening two matches, with one win and one loss.