Rayo Vallecano Form
Rayo Vallecano have turned the Estadio de Vallecas into an impregnable fortress: in this European campaign the team have won four of their five home matches. The hosts favour an aggressive style with intensive use of the flanks, where a special role is assigned to Isi Palazon. Despite a recent defeat in Athens (1:3), the home victory over the same AEK (3:0) showed that on their own pitch the home side are capable of overwhelming virtually any opponent thanks to their high pressing.
Key stats for Rayo Vallecano:
In five of their last six matches, the hosts have scored in the second half.
The hosts are unbeaten at home in 21 of their last 24 matches.
The team have scored fewer than two goals in seven of their last nine games.
Probable lineup (4-3-3): Dani Cardenas — Andrei Ratiu, Pathe Ciss, Florian Lejeune, Pep Chavarria — Isi Palazon, Oscar Valentin, Pedro Diaz — Jorge de Frutos, Alemao, Ilia Akhomash.
Unavailable: Alvaro Garcia, Luiz Felipe, Randy Nteka (injuries).
Strasbourg Form
Strasbourg have been the revelation of this season's Europa Conference League. The visitors collected 16 points from a possible 18 in the group stage and mounted a comeback against Mainz in the knockouts. After Rosenior's departure the team not only retained their attacking potential but also improved their finishing. Under Gary O'Neil they have scored 34 goals in all competitions across 17 matches (an average of two per game). The main architects of that success, especially in the Conference League, have been the midfield trio of Godo – Enciso – Nanasi, who between them have produced nine goals and nine assists in Europe.
Key stats for Strasbourg:
Strasbourg have scored 18 goals in the competition (the seventh-best tally in the Conference League).
The Ligue 1 side have lost only once in their last six matches in all competitions.
In five of their last six matches there have been more than 11 corners.
Probable lineup (4-2-3-1): Mike Penders — Abdul Ouattara, Andrew Omobamidele, Ismael Doukoure, Ben Chilwell — Samir El Murabet, Maxi Oyedele — Diego Moreira, Julio Enciso, Martial Godo — Emmanuel Emegha.
Unavailable: Aaron Anselmino, Joaquin Panichelli, Mathis Amogu, Valentin Barco (injuries), Guela Doue (doubtful).
