Sevilla aims to rebound from a heavy defeat to Barcelona as they face Espanyol at RCDE Stadium on Friday night. Currently, Sevilla sits 13th in the La Liga table with 12 points from 10 matches, while Espanyol is in 15th place with 10 points from the same number of games.
Also Read: Match Preview: Barcelona vs. Sevilla – prediction, team news, lineups
Espanyol has struggled this season, winning three, drawing one, and losing six of their league matches. Their recent form is concerning, having lost four of their last five games, including a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Athletic Bilbao.
They have already conceded 17 goals this season, making their defensive record one of the weakest in the league. Historically, Espanyol has struggled against Sevilla, failing to win against them since January 2017 and losing both league encounters in the previous season.
On the other hand, Sevilla enters this match on the back of a disappointing 5-1 loss to Barcelona, which halted their brief resurgence, having earned seven points from three games prior.
With a record of three wins, three draws, and four defeats this season, Sevilla’s position in 13th reflects the need for improvement after finishing 14th last season, their worst since 1999-2000. Sevilla has a dominant record against Espanyol, remaining unbeaten in their last 10 league matches, securing seven victories during that span.
Team News
Espanyol will miss defender Fernando Calero due to a muscular injury, while Javi Puado and Edu Exposito are doubtful ahead of the match. Puado has been a key player for Espanyol, scoring three goals this season but has missed the last two matches due to a knee issue.
Head coach Manolo Gonzalez is expected to make changes to the lineup that suffered a heavy defeat, with Pere Milla, Alvaro Tejero, and potentially Walid Cheddira set to feature.
For Sevilla, Saul Niguez will remain sidelined due to a thigh injury, but Tanguy Nianzou is back after serving a suspension. Head coach Garcia Pimienta is likely to introduce Albert Sambi Lokonga and Djibril Sow into the starting XI while keeping Isaac Romero at the forefront of the attack, supported by Chidera Ejuke and Dodi Lukebakio on the wings.
Espanyol possible starting lineup:
Garcia; El Hilali, Gomez, Kumbulla, Olivan; Gragera, Lozano, Milla; Tejero, Cheddira, Romero
Sevilla possible starting lineup:
Nyland; Carmona, Bade, Nianzou, Pedrosa; Agoume, Lokonga, Sow; Ejuke, Romero, Lukebakio
Given Sevilla’s favorable record against Espanyol, the matchup could end in another draw. However, with Espanyol’s improved home form, having secured three wins from their last four home fixtures, they may have the edge to avoid defeat this time.
