Prediction: Sevilla vs Espanyol

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 51/20

Bookmaker: 888sport

The La Liga season is entering its final furlong and there’s still a whole lot left to be determined at both ends of the table. Between success in Europe and some thrilling encounters on the domestic front, Spanish football appears to be bouncing back after a recent slump – and today, we’ll be taking a look at a collision between two sleeping giants as Sevilla go head to head with Espanyol.

Sevilla

Sevilla, just a few weeks ago, were concerned about the state of the relegation zone and how close they were to it. Now, however, things look a lot different. The club has been able to boost itself back up into midtable, allowing for a bit of breathing room and relaxation for the rest of the league season. Oh, and in addition to that, they’re in the semi-finals of the Europa League – which shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to those that know their history in that competition.

Espanyol

Sometimes they’re competing in Europe, and sometimes they’re in a relegation battle. This time around, it’s the latter for Espanyol, in another campaign that has seen them fail to live up to expectations. They just can’t seem to get out of their own way and they’re suffering for it, with one of their biggest problems being their inability to turn draws into wins when it matters the most. In short, they need to wake up and realise the severity of the situation.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in September, Sevilla beat Espanyol 3-2.
• Sevilla have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Espanyol have won one, drawn one and lost four of their last six games.
• Sevilla have scored 10 goals and conceded five in their last six games.
• Espanyol have scored six goals and conceded 11 in their last six games.

Conclusion

Desperation, especially when you’re in a relegation scrap, can do wild things to a team. Espanyol have the ability to get at Sevilla and when you take a look at the fixture schedule, it’s not outrageous to think that the hosts’ priority will be on their upcoming showdown with Juventus. As such, we’re predicting a back-and-forth, competitive affair that ends in both teams taking home a point for their troubles.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 51/20

Bookmaker: 888sport