Espanyol vs Real Valladolid: A Crucial La Liga Relegation Battle
The Espanyol vs Real Valladolid clash is set to be a pivotal encounter in the 2024/25 La Liga season. As both teams find themselves in the relegation zone, this match could have significant implications for their survival hopes. With the second half of the campaign underway, every point matters, and this Friday night showdown promises high stakes and intense drama.
Match Details
Kick-off Date/Time: Friday, 17th January 2025 – UK: 8:00 PM / US ET: 3:00 PM / US PT: 12:00 PM
How to Watch:
- UK: Premier Sports
- US: ESPN or ESPN+
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Espanyol Team News
Espanyol manager Manolo Gonzalez has been plagued by injuries this season, but there’s some good news. Key players Edu Exposito and Leandro Cabrera are back to full fitness, with Cabrera recently scoring in their last match. However, Carlos Romero and Jose Gragera remain sidelined, leaving gaps in the squad.
Predicted XI (4-1-4-1): Joan Garcia; El Hilali, Kumbulla, Leandro Cabrera, Brian Olivan; Pol Lozano; Alex Roca, Alvaro Tejero, Kral, Jofre Carreras; Javi Puado
Unavailable: Carlos Romero (Injured), Jose Gragera (Injured)
Real Valladolid Team News
Real Valladolid will welcome back Juanmi Latasa, who returns from suspension. The former Real Madrid striker’s presence could provide a much-needed boost. The team has no fresh injury concerns, though Mamadou Sylla remains unavailable.
Predicted XI (4-3-3): Hein; Lucas Perez, Juma Bah, Jorge Sanchez, Rosa; Kike Perez, Juric, Mario Martin; Anuar, Marcos Andre, Raul Moro
Unavailable: Mamadou Sylla (Injured)
Espanyol vs Real Valladolid: Key Stats and Form
Espanyol’s struggles for consistency have been evident this season. Despite taking an early lead in their last match against Leganes, they failed to secure a win, highlighting their inability to close out games. On the other hand, Real Valladolid secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Real Betis, thanks to Kike Perez’s second-half strike. This win could provide them with the momentum needed for this relegation six-pointer.
Both teams have struggled in front of goal, with Espanyol netting just 15 times and Valladolid only 12 in 19 matches. This suggests a low-scoring affair could be on the cards.
Espanyol vs Real Valladolid Prediction
Given the stakes and both teams’ struggles in front of goal, this match is likely to be a tight and tense affair. Espanyol’s home advantage could play a role, but Valladolid’s recent win might give them the confidence to grind out a result.
Prediction: Espanyol 1-1 Real Valladolid
Betting Tip: Under 2.5 goals
