LIVE – Rayo Vallecano v Real Madrid: Commentary, updates, goals and stats

It hasn’t been a great week for Real Madrid and coach Xabi Alonso.

They suffered just their second defeat of the season at Liverpool on Tuesday night but, as with every Madrid setback, it has been poured over by the Spanish media with many commentators feeling Alonso was overly negative.

A trip to Vallecas probably wouldn’t have been Alonso’s first-choice as they attempt to bounce back, with the hosts liking nothing more than getting one over their more illustrious neighbours.

Madrid are five points clear of Barcelona at the top of La Liga.