Real Madrid will visit Espanyol on Saturday for a pivotal La Liga match. Carlo Ancelotti’s team is currently at the top of the Spanish league with a four-point lead over Atletico Madrid, while FC Barcelona sits in third place, trailing by seven points. A win is crucial for Madrid as they prepare for the UEFA Champions League playoffs later this month, where they will face Manchester City.
How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Saturday, February 1
- Time: 3 PM ET
- Location: RCDE Stadium, Barcelona, Spain
- Live Stream: ESPN+
- Odds: Espanyol +900; Draw +425; Real Madrid -340
Team News
Espanyol: The home team will be without Salvi Sanchez and Jose Gragera due to injuries. Additionally, Brian Olivan is also expected to miss the match after sustaining an injury in their last game against Sevilla.
Potential Espanyol XI: Garcia; El Hilali, Kumbulla, Cabrera, Romero; Carreras, Kral, Lozano, Tejero; Puado, Fernandez.
Real Madrid: In addition to long-term injuries to Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, the good news for Real is that Vinicius Jr. will be back in the attack alongside Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe.
Potential Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Mendy; Valverde, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius.
Prediction
A straightforward victory is anticipated for Real Madrid as they aim to solidify their position in the title race. Pick: Real Madrid 2, Espanyol 0.
