Espanyol vs Valencia Preview: Team News, Predicted Lineups and Score Prediction
Two teams in the lower reaches of LaLiga, Espanyol and Valencia, face off on Wednesday, December 18th at 20:30 UTC at the RCDE Stadium. Both sides are in desperate need of points to climb away from the relegation zone.
Espanyol vs Valencia Form
Espanyol currently sit 18th in the league standings, while Valencia are bottom. The recent form of both teams has been poor, with Espanyol managing just one win in their last seven games, and Valencia failing to win any of their last three.
Espanyol have, however, managed to secure three draws against Valencia in their previous three encounters, which includes a 2-2 draw when the sides last met in May 2023. In the last six meetings between the two teams, Valencia have won twice, Espanyol once, and there have been three draws.
Espanyol vs Valencia Predicted Lineups and Team News
Espanyol are expected to line up in a 4-4-2 formation, with J. García in goal; a backline of B. Oliván, L. Cabrera, S. Gómez and Á. Tejero; a midfield of C. Romero, J. Smith, A. Král and A. Roca; and a front two of I. Cardona and J. Puado
Espanyol will be without Gragera through injury, and Lozano and Kumbulla due to suspension.
Valencia are also likely to play a 4-4-2, with S. Dimitrievski in goal; a defence of J. Vázquez, C. Mosquera, C. Tárrega, and D. Foulquier; a midfield of L. Rioja, J. Guerra, Pepelu, and F. Pérez; and a strike partnership of D. López and H. Duro
Valencia are missing Mamardashvili, Correia, and Gayà through injury, while Diakhaby is doubtful for the match.
Espanyol vs Valencia Tactical Analysis
Espanyol's tactical approach includes a preference for counter-attacks, a high shot volume, and frequent crosses. However, they struggle with ball retention, finishing chances, and defending against set pieces. Valencia, on the other hand, excel at defending set pieces and prefer to play with width, controlling the game in their opponent's half and attacking down the left flank. A clash of styles is therefore expected, with Espanyol looking to hit their opponents on the break, while Valencia will attempt to control the game and create chances.
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Espanyol vs Valencia Key Battle: Justin Smith vs Pepelu
A key battle in this game could be in the centre of midfield between Espanyol's Justin Smith and Valencia's Pepelu. Both midfielders are likely to be crucial to their respective sides' plans. Smith will be tasked with winning the ball back and launching attacks from deep, while Pepelu will be looking to control the tempo and dictate play. The winner of this battle could have a significant impact on the final result.
Espanyol vs Valencia Score Prediction
Both teams are struggling for form and are desperate for a win. Espanyol have a slightly better recent home record than Valencia's away record, but recent meetings between the two sides have been tight. Given the form of both teams, a draw seems the most likely outcome.
Prediction: Espanyol 1-1 Valencia
