Dani Cárdenas
RAY
Available after illness
Cardenas will be available for Tuesday's Copa del Rey clash against Recreativo de Huelva after recovering from the illness that forced him to miss Saturday's La Liga encounter against Elche, according to coach Benat San Jose, per Union Rayo.
Analysis: Cardenas has recovered from the illness that resulted in his late withdrawal from Rayo Vallecano's matchday squad against Elche, providing the team with additional goalkeeping depth ahead of Tuesday's cup fixture. The Spanish goalkeeper was initially expected to be available Saturday but was ultimately ruled out shortly before kickoff. His recovery comes at an opportune time, as the Copa del Rey could provide an opportunity for the backup goalkeeper to earn additional playing time. Cardenas has struggled when called upon to replace Augusto Batalla this season, conceding eight goals across two and a half appearances. Although Batalla remains the preferred option in La Liga, Cardenas could be considered for a starting role against Recreativo de Huelva as Rayo look to rotate their squad during the cup competition.
Late scratch due to illness
Cardenas (illness) has been ruled out of Rayo Vallecano's squad as a late scratch due to illness ahead of Saturday's clash against Elche, according to Pablo Villa of Marca.
Analysis: Cardenas was initially expected to be available for selection but has been withdrawn from the matchday squad after falling ill shortly before the game. The goalkeeper's absence should have minimal impact on Rayo Vallecano's plans, as he currently occupies a backup role and was not expected to feature. Cardenas previously endured a difficult spell between the posts when called upon to replace Augusto Batalla, conceding eight goals across two and a half appearances. His latest absence is unlikely to affect the team's starting lineup, although it temporarily reduces the club's goalkeeping depth.
Concedes twice Saturday
Cardenas recorded two saves and allowed two goals in Saturday's 3-2 victory over Racing Santander.
Analysis: Cardenas allowed two goals in the first 28 minutes of Saturday's contest, but he and his defense locked down after that and pulled off the comeback victory. Cardenas has struggled since coming in for the injured Augusto Batalla (leg), allowing eight goals and making eight saves in two and a half matches. If his poor form continues, recent loan signing Emil Audero could be given a chance to start during Batalla's extended absence.
Five saves despite loss
Daniel Cardenas recorded five saves and allowed five goals in Monday's 5-2 defeat versus Barcelona.
Analysis: Cardenas stopped five of the 10 shots he faced during Monday's defeat. That's certainly not a bad return, but against this sort of volume and quality, it was always going to be difficult for Cardenas to do much of anything. He will hope to make more of some easier matches coming up.
Makes 10 saves in start
Daniel Cardenas recorded 10 saves and allowed one goal in Saturday's 2-1 victory over Deportivo Alaves.
Analysis: Cardenas was handed the start as part of a rotated lineup to allow Augusto Batalla the rest he needs ahead of the Conference League final against Crystal Palace, and he responded with an outstanding display, making 10 saves to play a huge part in securing the win.
Allows three against Sociedad
Cardenas had five saves and allowed three goals in Sunday's 3-3 draw against Real Sociedad.
Analysis: Cardenas continues in a starting role for a third match Sunday, earning a solid five saves but still conceding three goals. This comes after a clean sheet last outing, still with only one in his three appearances. The club is now set for a midweek Conference League match before facing Getafe on Sunday.
First clean sheet in win
Daniel Cardenas made four saves and secured a clean sheet in Thursday's 1-0 victory against Espanyol.
Analysis: Daniel Cardenas made four saves and three clearances Thursday to record his first clean sheet of the campaign in Rayo Vallecano's 1-0 road victory over Espanyol. The backup keeper has relieved starter Augusto Batalla in Rayo Vallecano's most recent two fixtures due to suspension and a thing injury. If Batalla remains on the shelf, expect Cardenas to make his third appearance of the campaign Sunday when Rayo Vallecano hosts Real Sociedad.
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