The Celestes unleashed a flurry of goals at Balaídos, registering an impressive 3-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano. The scoring commenced with Sergio Carreira, who netted a well-crafted goal in the 39th minute of the first half. Shortly after the break, in the 53rd minute, Bryan Zaragoza extended the lead with a penalty goal. Minutes later, Javi Rueda sealed the deal, scoring the final goal in the 78th minute.
The standout performer of the match was undoubtedly Javi Rueda, who not only scored a goal but also maintained a solid defensive showing. Sergio Carreira also made significant contributions, registering a goal along with 33 successful passes and two attempts on goal.
Coach Claudio Giráldez deployed a 3-4-3 formation, starting with Ionut Radu in goal; a defensive line of Javier Rodríguez, Carl Starfelt, and Marcos Alonso; a midfield comprising Sergio Carreira, Hugo Sotelo, Ilaix Moriba, and Óscar Mingueza; and a forward trio of Hugo Álvarez, Pablo Duran, and Bryan Zaragoza.
On the other side, Rayo Vallecano, guided by Iñigo Perez, took the field with a 4-5-1 setup. Augusto Batalla guarded the net, supported by defenders Luis Alfonso Espino, Florian Lejeune, Nobel Mendy, and Pep Chavarría. The midfield was manned by Gerard Gumbau, Pedro Díaz, Álvaro García, Isaac Palazón, and Carlos Martín, with Jorge de Frutos leading the line.
Referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer officiated the match at Balaídos.
Looking ahead, Celta’s next encounter will be an away game against Real Sociedad, while Rayo will host Osasuna. Following this result, Celta ascends to 32 points, placing them seventh in the league, while Rayo Vallecano remains on 22 points in twelfth position.
Substitutions for Celta
62’ 2T – Substitutions: Hugo Álvarez replaced by Williot Swedberg, and Hugo Sotelo replaced by Miguel Román.
70’ 2T – Substitutions: Javier Rodríguez replaced by Manu Fernandez, and Óscar Mingueza replaced by Javi Rueda.
82’ 2T – Substitution: Carl Starfelt replaced by Hugo Burcio.
Cautions for Celta
Aly Álvarez (43’ 1T) for unsporting behavior,
Sotelo (58’ 2T) for unsporting behavior,
and Iago Aspas (65’ 2T) for arguing with an opponent.
Substitutions for Rayo Vallecano
60’ 2T – Substitutions: Gerard Gumbau replaced by Randy Nteka, and Luis Alfonso Espino substituted by Alexandre Alemão.
67’ 2T – Carlos Martín replaced by Jozhua Vertrouwd.
77’ 2T – Jorge de Frutos replaced by Óscar Trejo, and Isaac Palazón replaced by Fran Pérez.
Cautions for Rayo Vallecano
Gerard Gumbau (57’ 2T) for holding an opponent to prevent advancement,
Carlos Martín (58’ 2T) for holding an opponent to prevent advancement,
and Isaac Palazón (58’ 2T) for arguing with an opponent.
Red Card for Rayo Vallecano
Nobel Mendy was sent off with a direct red card (66’ 2T).