Rayo Vallecano secured their first win of the 2026-27 season on Saturday, September 5th, beating Racing de Santander 3-2 in a match full of twists. Forward Sergio Camello was the standout player, scoring two goals and providing an assist at the Estadio Ontime Butarque. This victory comes at a crucial time for the team, which before the match was 18th in the LaLiga standings with just one point from three games.
How did the match unfold?
The match, corresponding to the fourth round of LaLiga, was vibrant from the start. Rayo Vallecano, currently playing their home games at Butarque in Leganés, had to come from behind twice on the scoreboard. The win was achieved even after finishing the game with ten men, showcasing the spirit of the team coached by Beñat San José. Referee Quintero González officiated the clash, which provided thrilling moments for the fans.
The Rayo Vallecano 2026 squad showed their ability to react. Alongside Camello, other players like goalkeeper Dani Cárdenas, French defender Florian Lejeune and Senegalese midfielder Pathé Ciss were key. Romanian full-back Andrei Ratiu and forwards Álvaro García, Alemao, Fran Pérez and Jorge de Frutos also contributed on the pitch. For Racing, players like Sergio Canales, Moroccan forward Yassir Zabiri, Pablo García, Íñigo Vicente and defender Jorge Salinas, under manager José Alberto López, caused problems for the Madrid side. Goalkeeper Agirrezabala could not prevent the three goals.
What is the context surrounding this win?
The win is a breather for Rayo, who are facing a tough start to the campaign. With a recent form of LDL and a record of four goals scored and eight conceded, the three points are vital. The team now sits eight points behind leaders Barcelona and must prepare for a demanding fixture. Their next challenge is an away match against second-placed Real Madrid on September 12th. You can check the full schedule on our fixtures page.
The atmosphere at Butarque before kick-off was marked by a protest from several supporter groups against the management of president Raúl Martín Presa, which contributed to the stands being nearly empty at the start. Despite this off-field context, the team managed to focus on the pitch and deliver a gritty performance that ended in victory.
Who is missing from the squad?
To face the upcoming challenges, the coaching staff must manage several significant absences. Currently sidelined and unavailable to coach Beñat San José are goalkeeper Augusto Batalla, defender Jozhua Vertrouwd and midfielder Luiz Felipe. Their status can be followed in the club's injuries section. Their absence forces adjustments in a team looking to establish itself in the top flight.
The victory against Racing proves that the Rayo Vallecano squad has the resources to compete, even under adverse circumstances. Sergio Camello's brace, his assist, and the collective reaction are positive takeaways. The team now travels to Madrid to face a giant in their next league match.
