Osasuna suffocates Rayo with iron-clad defense: 2-0 in tactical masterclass

Skip It Futmetrix Score: 32/100. Osasuna's clinical performance extends their winning streak while Rayo Vallecano's dominance in possession yields nothing but frustration.

García sets the early tone

Osasuna wasted no time stamping authority on the contest. R. García broke the deadlock in the 15th minute with a goal that handed the Navarre outfit complete control. It was a statement of intensity—compact defense, lightning transitions, zero mercy.

Herrera becomes the fortress guardian

While Rayo Vallecano monopolized possession at 64%, it was Sergio Herrera who truly controlled the match. With six commanding saves, Osasuna's goalkeeper transformed the penalty area into an impenetrable fortress. Rayo unleashed 19 shots; only six tested the keeper. The upset factor? Possession meant nothing—the Madrid side generated just 1.04 xG against Osasuna's 1.77, exposing the fundamental balance in this contest.

The substitute's knockout punch

Iker Benito delivered the knockout in the 77th minute, a substitute's finish that encapsulated Osasuna's tactical superiority. Coming on in the 71st minute, the forward needed just six minutes to prove the home side's control never wavered. J. Moncayola carved the assist with surgical precision.

Steel at the back: Catena anchors the defense

Alejandro Catena was the bedrock in defense, winning aerial duels and snuffing out attacks with an authority that left Rayo's forwards starved of space. His commanding display proved vital to keeping the clean sheet despite relentless pressure.