October 27, (THEWILL) – Rayo Vallecano beat Barcelona 1-0, with Radamel Falcao scoring and Memphis Depay missing a penalty, to add to Ronald Koeman’s anguish.
The Catalans came to Vallecas in desperate need of a win after losing to Real Madrid in the first Clasico of the season on Sunday. Instead, Barca supporters were given yet another reminder of how far their team has sunk.
In an evenly matched first half, little chances were created until the 30th minute, when Falcao took advantage of Sergio Busquets’ sloppy play to direct a finish in off the inside of the far post.
Sergio Aguero, starting for the first time for his new club, missed two fantastic chances to equalise in the second half before Jordi Alba’s match was cut short due to injury. The loss of another one of Barca’s finest performers will be disastrous given their predicament.
When Memphis was tripped inside the box, Barca appeared to have been granted a lifeline, but Stole Dimitrievski stopped Memphis’ penalty kick, and Rayo Vallecano held on to their lead.
When Falcao signed for Rayo Vallecano earlier this season, it appeared a questionable move, but the Colombian centre forward is having a career resurgence in La Liga, as evidenced by his match-winning goal in this encounter.
After being played in behind, most players would have rushed the shot, but Falcao kept his cool and cut back inside, guiding his effort in off the inside of the far post demonstrating to everyone that he was still ticking at the age of 35.
A great start to the season with Falcao’s contributions has helped Rayo Vallecano to climb to fifth place in La Liga, while Barcelona is in ninth, with pressure mounting on Koeman with every match.
Barcelona has now lost back-to-back games in the league, and they have yet to win on the road this season. Next time out, Koeman will be aiming for a better result against Deportivo Alaves.
Rayo’s home winning streak has now reached five games, providing them the confidence they need going into their next match against Celta Vigo.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
