Barcelona will believe that the win at last week’s El Classico has brought them good luck charm. Otherwise, how could you explain Real Madrid’ loss against Sevilla? So, it will be a “born again” Barcelona that will meet Espanyol on this Saturday for what can be called a Barcelona derby. However, luck alone would not see them through against a good Espanyol side.

Barcaleno are second in the league table – one point behind Atletico Madrid and two points ahead of Real Madrid. They are due to play against Atletico on the final day of the league. If the status quo will be maintained till then, it is going to be a memorable day.

For that to happen, Barca must win every game till then – that is, seven games in a row. That is not something beyond them, as a home tie against Athletic Bilbao and an away match against Villareal appear to be the only difficult games. Still, their focus will be on winning this game against the neighbors, who have been playing well in recent times.

Espanyol are eighth in the league, with practically no chances of getting a European league berth. With just a single loss in the last five games and a strong home record, they appear to be a strong defensive unit. They have not managed to win against Barca in the last five seasons.

Barca’s goalkeeper Victor Valdes is sure to miss not just this match but probably the entire season due to the injury he suffered in the mid-week match against Celta Vigo. Jose Manuel Pinto is likely to replace him. Lionel Messi and Neymar are in good form, which should sound ominous for the Espanyol defense.

Sergio García is the big hope for Espanyol. If he fires, his team will give a run for money for their mighty opponents.

Espanyol-Barcelona Prediction

Barcelona are desperate for a win. When they are desperate, they usually find a way to win. At least, that is what the El Classico teaches us.

Barca 1.33 @ Bet365

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