Rayo Vallecano strengthened their LaLiga survival hopes with a 3-0 victory over Atlético Madrid in a match overshadowed by widespread fan protests against club owner Raúl Martín Presa.
The fixture was relocated to Leganés’ Butarque stadium after Rayo’s home pitch was deemed unplayable. Goals from Fran Pérez, Óscar Valentín, and Nobel Mendy secured a crucial win.
First-Half Double Sets Tone
Atlético manager Diego Simeone rotated his squad and paid the price. Pérez opened the scoring in the 40th minute with a first-time finish from close range.
Four minutes later, Valentín converted the rebound after Jan Oblak parried a fierce effort from Pérez. Mendy added a third in the second half, powering home a header from a corner as Atlético offered little resistance.
Protests Dominate Atmosphere
Spanish police limited attendance to 14,000 season-ticket holders, yet fewer than 6,000 fans were present, many staging protests against Presa.
After each goal, supporters chanted “Presa: leave now!” instead of celebrating. Banners and songs targeting the owner echoed throughout the stadium.
Rayo’s players, staff, and the AFE footballers’ union recently issued a joint statement criticising “unacceptable conditions” at the club’s facilities, citing obsolete infrastructure and worsening conditions. The club declined to comment.
League Implications
The result contrasted sharply with Atlético’s 4-0 Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg win over Barcelona earlier in the week.
Rayo climb to 16th on 25 points, easing relegation fears, while Atlético remain fourth on 45 points, 15 behind leaders Barcelona.
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