Rayo Vallecano vs Neman Grodno Predictions

• Rayo Vallecano won the first leg 1-0 in Belarus
• Neman Grodno managed only five touches in the Rayo box at home
• Neman Grodo failed to score at KI Reykjavik in the previous round

Rayo can keep Belarusians at bay

Rayo Vallecano return to Madrid with a slender advantage as they host Neman Grodno in the second leg of their Europa Conference League playoff. Inigo Perez’s side edged the first leg 1-0 in Grodno, although the scoreline probably doesn’t reflect their comfort.

The La Liga side should have far too much class for their opponents on what should be a special occasion at Vallecas as they return to Europe after a 25-year absence. Neman are also attempting to reach the group stage of European competition for the first time in their history.

They showed plenty of resilience in earlier rounds, notably when overturning a two-goal first-leg deficit at home to Icelandic outfit KI. But they struggled to create chances in the first leg against Rayo, registering only five touches in the opposition box on target and failing to break down a well-organised Spanish defence.

Hosts have what it takes to win again

Despite their attacking talent, Rayo have not been prolific since their 3-1 win over Girona on the opening weekend of La Liga.  Half of their 18 shots against Neman were from outside the box and they failed to score against Atletico Madrid on Sunday.

Backing under 2.5 goals looks the logical play given both teams’ recent scoring trends but with Rayo holding the edge and playing at home, they’re worth backing in the win to nil market.