Rayo Vallecano secured a much-needed victory on Saturday, defeating Alavés 2-0 in La Liga’s 29th matchday, with Senegalese midfielder Pathé Ciss playing a pivotal role in the triumph.
After enduring a five-match winless run, Rayo Vallecano reignited their European ambitions with a commanding performance in Vitoria.
Iñigo Pérez’s side entered the fixture determined to turn their fortunes around, and they delivered a clinical display to claim all three points.
The breakthrough came almost instantly, as Pathé Ciss found the net just 89 seconds into the game.
The 31-year-old midfielder’s early strike marked his third goal of the season, setting the tone for Rayo’s dominant display.
Alavés had an opportunity to level the score when they were awarded a penalty in the 14th minute, but Joan Jordan’s effort was denied by goalkeeper Miguel Ángel Morro, preserving Rayo’s lead.
The Madrid-based side continued to control proceedings and doubled their advantage in the 58th minute.
Pedro Díaz capitalized on a well-worked move to seal the win, propelling Rayo Vallecano to seventh place in the league standings.
With this result, Rayo Vallecano keeps its hopes alive for European qualification as the season enters its final stretch.
Meanwhile, Alavés will be left ruing missed opportunities as they struggle to find consistency in their campaign.
