What has been an erratic season for Real Madrid took another twist on Wednesday night as Los Blancos suffered their worst ever home defeat in Europe.
Fortunately for Santiago Solari's team, the 3-0 loss against CSKA Moscow came in a game of little significance with Madrid having already secured top spot in Group G of the Champions League.
Emotionally, however, it was another damaging result and the European champions will need a strong showing on Saturday afternoon to ensure they head off to the Club World Cup with a more positive outlook.
Latest odds
The visitors to the Bernabeu this weekend are a Rayo Vallecano side who have won just one of their last 24 away matches in La Liga, with that victory coming at the only team who are below them in the table - Huesca.
Getty ImagesRayo have lost each of their last 16 matches against Real Madrid and their last visit to the north of the Spanish capital saw them lose 10-2. The visitors are offered at 14/1 (15.00) by bet365 with a home win priced at 1/7 (1.14) and the draw at 8/1 (9.00).
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Team news
Real Madrid defensive midfielder Casemiro has missed the last month but is nearing a return from injury. Solari must decide whether or not he wants to give the Brazilian minutes before the Club World Cup. Defender Nacho Fernandez remains out for Los Blancos.
GettyRayo are still without winger Gael Kakuta.
Preview
If Real Madrid could have hand picked their final La Liga game of the year, it might well have been a home clash against their neighbours from the south of the city.
On their return to the top flight this season Rayo are once again struggling, sitting 19th in the table with the worst defence in the division.
They also have the lowest total of goals scored on the road (four in seven matches) and their record at the Bernabeu as poor as exists in Spain.
Three weeks ago Real Madrid suffered a disappointing 3-0 defeat at Eibar, but bounced back with good wins against Roma and Valencia.
Tips and predictions
Real Madrid to win and over 3.5 goals is priced at 8/11 (1.73) with this selection paying out in seven of Rayo's last eight visits to the Bernabeu.
Prices correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
Real Madrid to win and over 3.5 goals at 8/11 (1.73) for a 2.5pt stake with bet365