Rayo Vallecano vs Samsunspor prediction 19.03.2026 | Conference League

Rayo Vallecano came to this season after a really good one last year, when they finished 8th in La Liga. This season, after some ups and downs, it seems they have found their rhythm as they are currently on a six-game unbeaten streak in La Liga. After 28 rounds, Los Franjirrojos are in 13th place, and securing European Qualifiers doesn't seem likely. So, we believe they will be focused only on just avoiding relegation in La Liga and trying to win the Conference League. Right now, the bookies see them as the fourth favorite, only behind Crystal Palace, Strasbourg, and Fiorentina. 

After a 1:1 draw with Levante, coach Iñigo Pérez spoke to the media. The coach was slightly frustrated with the performance, but praised the team for showing character after Mendy's red card. "It's a point I might appreciate in the long run, but I'm not satisfied," the coach added.

Samsunspor had a magnificent last season, by far their best in the 21st century, finishing third - only behind Galatasaray and Fenerbahce. They managed to secure Europe after a 27-year break. This year, the Red and Whites had an awesome start and looked poised for another strong season. Unfortunately, since December, their results have heavily declined. At the moment, after 26 rounds, they are in 7th place in Super Lig with 35 points - pretty far from European spots. 

However, in the cup competitions, they did well, reaching the Conference League knockout phase and the Turkish Cup Quarter Finals, where they will face Trabzonspor. 

In the previous game against Kayserispor, midfielder Olivier Ntcham suffered an injury and had to leave the field after only four minutes. The 30-year-old has been one of the team's best players in recent months, and his absence could be a massive problem.