Villarreal remains alive in the Europa League chase after a commanding showing that produced a 1-5 triumph. The visitors surged ahead in the first half with strikes from Pedraza, Foyth, Paco Alcácer, and Pau Torres, setting a tone that would carry them through a stubborn second period. Pedraza’s late strike in the 88th minute sealed the victory and capped a performance that kept the drama alive for Emery’s side as they pressed the tempo from distance and worked set pieces to maximum effect in the half-hour before the break. (Goal)
For details and emphasis on the clash between Rayo Vallecano and Villarreal from the 2021-2022 La Liga campaign, see the match overview linked here. (Goal)
The defensive organization of Villarreal was a key factor, with three of the five goals emanating from structured set-piece routines that caught Rayo off guard. Vallecano, after already stabilizing their league standing, found it difficult to reset their shape after the restart as Villarreal clicked into high gear. (Goal)
The result leaves Villarreal three points clear of the relegation-basement position in the Europa League zone, a spot currently held by Real Sociedad. The Monday-to-Sunday arc remains within reach, as Emery’s men aim for a final surge that could lift them into European contention on the season’s final day when the Basques visit. (Goal)
Minute by minute of Rayo Vallecano vs. Villarreal from La Liga
Press conferences of Rayo Vallecano vs. Villarreal from La Liga
Once the whistle blew, the most telling quotes began to surface.
@Alfonsopedraza9: “It felt like a final for us and we delivered.” #RayoVillarreal
—Villarreal CF (@VillarrealCF) May 12, 2022
Videos, lineups and news of Rayo Vallecano vs. Villarreal from La Liga
More clips and match updates will follow as the competition unfolds…
88′ A thunderous finish from Pedraza seals it. Vallecano 1-5 Villarreal. The right-footed strike from Pedraza connected with Boulaye Dia and could not be stopped by Dimitrievski. The Cordova native did not miss the moment. (Goal)
Day and Chukwueze are closing in on a remarkable strike tally for the season. (Goal)
45′ + 1′ Pau Torres adds another late strike, finishing behind the defense after a clean pass from Dani Parejo in the area. Villarreal’s quick transitions and dead-ball precision paid dividends again as Emery’s approach opened a route to another European-position push. (Goal)
#RayoVillarreal 1-4 45′ | Pauta Torres strikes again, celebrated in style with a powerful shot from close range after a smart layoff, a testament to Emery’s reliance on signal-sharp movements and a well-honed set-piece routine. (Goal)
38′ Paco Alcácer extends the lead with a clinical finish as Villarreal convert a chance in the box, showcasing the forward’s sharp movement and the team’s sustained pressure. (Goal)
#RayoVillarreal 1-3 37′ | A composed finish by Paco Alcácer, finishing a ball into the box after Dani Parejo’s late-arriving delivery, underscoring Villarreal’s ability to punish opponents in transition. (Goal)
27′ Foyth rises highest to stab home after a cross from the flank, giving Villarreal renewed ambition and re-establishing their lead in the contest. The team’s connection through Pau Torres and other links in the chain were evident throughout. (Goal)
21′ Sergi Guardiola’s effort levels the score briefly as the ball hits the post before finding the net, reflecting a moment of balance before Villarreal’s late surge. (Goal)
Min.20 Sergi Guardiola’s early strike marks the tie’s early exchange, with Rayo pressing to seize the initiative and Villarreal answering with disciplined structure. (Goal)
3′ Pedraza opens the scoring with a decisive header and a precise finish, setting Villarreal on a path to dominance as the opening minutes unfold. The right-back showcased composure and timing in an early breakthrough. (Goal)
Our first 1️⃣1️⃣ for the Vallecas Stadium and the atmosphere around the clash underscored the competitive spirit of both sides. (Goal)
⚡ Eleven of Rayo Vallecano were selected to face Villarreal, highlighting the tactical approach from Andoni Iraola in this matchup. (Goal)
—Vallecano Ray (@RayoVallecano) May 12, 2022
Rayo Vallecano vs. Rayo Vallecano Summary Villarreal from La Liga
All Rayo Vallecano vs. Villarreal from La Liga
Source: Goal