Rayo: House of love — Terrace Edition

Words: Gonzalo Alfaro

Images: Gonzalo Alfaro

After 25 long years, Estadio de Vallecas is hosting European nights and every aspect of them is perfect. From football quality to non-stop chanting.

Last Wednesday Rayo Vallecano received AEK Athens for the Quarter finals' 1st leg match of the Conference League and despite not being regulars in the tournament and fans having an “against modern football” ethos, they are giving it a damned good go.

The Match started off with an early goal from Moroccan youngster Ilias Akhomach that left Vallecas wanting more and the team grew in confidence to take control of the leg (insert pirate joke).

A disallowed goal from Florian Lejeune in the 21st just made clear to everybody that this match was in Rayo's pocket.

The fierce crowd was instrumental in a 90 minute high intensity match that left one big impression: Rayo players are not here for the photo opportunities, they're fighting with their blood, sweat and tears to win this tournament.

There's still a rough match tomorrow in Athens, but a strong punch was already delivered with a 3-0 win, in the punkiest neighbourhood of Madrid, built on love.

Gonzalo is on Instagram: @casacadelmedio

AEK: Beyond the scoreboard

Blue Dawn

Bologna FC: Always

River: In the bad

Derby di Milano: Buildup