A number of teams are vying for spots in the European qualifying spots before the season is up, including Andoni Iraola's club. With two wins on the road and two losses at Vallecas since the year 2023 began, a triumph in Castellon extended their strong road performance. At the Estadio de la Ceramica, the home team created more opportunities before halftime while the visitors from Italy were compelled to defend hard.
After the break, though, the hosts found it difficult to preserve their advantage as Rayo seized the chance to end Villarreal's own Champions League chances. Oscar Trejo's deft pass allowed Sergio Camello to sprint in behind and score a magnificent victory. In seven days, Rayo will travel to Almeria, while Villarreal will travel this weekend to Elche, a nearby city.