Madrid, Spain – Atlético Madrid will host Rayo Vallecano today, February 15, 2026, in a La Liga match at the Cívitas Metropolitano stadium. Both teams have announced their starting lineups for the contest, which is scheduled to begin at 15:04 local time.
Atlético Madrid, under the leadership of manager Diego Simeone, will field a starting eleven featuring Jan Oblak in goal. The defense will be anchored by José Giménez and Jean-Marc Lenglet, supported by full-backs Nahuel Molina and Federico Ruggeri. The midfield will consist of Johnny, Mendoza, Álex Baena, and Nico, providing a blend of creativity and defensive solidity. Leading the attack will be Álvaro Morata and Samuel Sørloth.
The substitutes for Atlético Madrid include goalkeepers Ivo Musso and Santiago Esquivel, defenders Hancko and Pubill, midfielders Koke, Llorente, and Giuliano, and forwards Griezmann, Julián Alvarez, and Lookman. This provides Simeone with ample options to adjust the team’s tactics and personnel as the match unfolds.
Rayo Vallecano, meanwhile, will start with Stole Dimitrievski in goal. The defensive line will feature Ratiu, Lejeune, N. Mendy, and Pacha Espino. Óscar Valentín, Gumbau, and Isi will form the midfield, tasked with controlling possession and creating opportunities. The attacking trio will consist of Akhomach, Fran Pérez, and De Frutos.
Rayo Vallecano’s substitutes include Juanpe Gil, Luiz Felipe, Mumin, Jozhua, Balliu, Unai López, Pedro Díaz, Trejo, Álvaro García, Alemâo, Camello, and Nteka. Manager Iñigo Pérez will be hoping these players can make an impact if called upon during the match.
The match takes place against a backdrop of a tightly contested La Liga season. Atlético Madrid currently occupies a strong position in the league table, aiming to secure Champions League qualification. Rayo Vallecano, while not challenging for the top spots, are a well-organized team capable of causing upsets, and will be looking to climb the table.
Today’s fixture is particularly notable as it falls on a day marked by a diverse range of international observances. According to Days of the Year, February 15th, 2026, is recognized as World Whale Day, Singles Awareness Day, Susan B. Anthony Day, Parinirvana Day, and National Black Girl Magic Day, among others. These varied celebrations highlight the increasingly globalized nature of cultural awareness and the diverse interests of communities worldwide.
Beyond the Spanish league, February 15th, 2026, also sees significant sporting events elsewhere. The 68th Annual Daytona 500 is scheduled to take place at Daytona International Speedway, with Kyle Busch starting from pole position. The NASCAR event is a major draw for motorsport fans in the United States and internationally.
the Champions League is also underway, with Matchday 7 fixtures taking place. While specific lineups for those matches were not detailed in available information, the competition remains a focal point for European football enthusiasts. Bulinews has been providing predicted lineups for the Champions League matches, indicating the high level of interest in the tournament.
The confluence of these events – a La Liga match in Madrid, the Daytona 500 in Florida, and Champions League action across Europe – underscores the global appeal of sport and its ability to capture the attention of audiences worldwide. The starting lineups released today offer a glimpse into the tactical approaches and player selections that managers believe will give their teams the best chance of success.
The match between Atlético Madrid and Rayo Vallecano promises to be a competitive encounter, with both teams possessing strengths and weaknesses. Simeone’s Atlético Madrid are known for their defensive resilience and attacking prowess, while Rayo Vallecano are a well-drilled side capable of frustrating opponents. The outcome of the match will likely depend on which team can impose its game plan and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
As the day progresses, fans will be following the action from the Cívitas Metropolitano, Daytona International Speedway, and various Champions League venues, demonstrating the enduring power of sport to unite and entertain audiences across the globe. The diverse range of events occurring on February 15th, 2026, serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of cultural and sporting activities that shape our world.
