Espanyol vs Barcelona Predicted Lineup: Full Match Preview & Tactical Analysis

The Catalan derby between Espanyol vs Barcelona is set to ignite on 15 May 2025 at 20:30 CET at the RCDE Stadium. This fixture holds significant weight as Barcelona aims to clinch the La Liga title, while Espanyol seeks to secure their position in the top flight. In this detailed preview, we delve into the Espanyol vs Barcelona predicted lineup, providing insights into team news, player statistics, head-to-head records, and more.

Quick Wiki Data Table – Espanyol vs Barcelona Predicted Lineup

For more on La Liga clubs, visit the La Liga Wikipedia page.

Live Score & Match Details

• Kick-off: 20:30 CET, 15 May 2025

• Venue: RCDE Stadium, Barcelona

• Referee: César Soto Grado

• Live Score: Click here for Real-Time Updates

• Weather: Clear skies, 22°C – ideal footballing conditions

Espanyol vs Barcelona Predicted Lineup – Starting XI & Tactical Setups

Barcelona Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)

• GK: Wojciech Szczęsny

• RB: Eric García

• CB: Andreas Christensen

• CB: Pau Cubarsí

• LB: Alejandro Balde

• CM: Frenkie de Jong

• CM: Pedri

• RW: Lamine Yamal

• CAM: Dani Olmo

• LW: Raphinha

• CF: Robert Lewandowski

Injuries/Suspensions:

• Ferran Torres (appendicitis) – out

• Iñigo Martínez (suspension) – out

• Jules Koundé (injury) – out

• Pablo Torre (doubtful)

Espanyol Predicted XI (4-4-2)

• GK: Fernando Pacheco

• RB: Óscar Gil

• CB: Sergi Gómez

• CB: Leandro Cabrera

• LB: Brian Oliván

• RM: Javi Puado

• CM: Sergi Darder

• CM: Keidi Bare

• LM: Nico Melamed

• FW: Martin Braithwaite

• FW: Joselu

Injuries/Suspensions:

• Pol Lozano (injury) – out

• Brian Oliván (doubtful)

Head-to-Head Record: Espanyol vs Barcelona

• Barcelona: 3 Wins

• Espanyol: 0 Wins

• Draws: 2

Espanyol vs Barcelona – Injury Report & Player Status

Barcelona Injury Update

• Ferran Torres: Underwent appendicitis surgery; out for the remainder of the season.

• Iñigo Martínez: Suspended for this match.

• Jules Koundé: Recovering from injury; unavailable.

• Pablo Torre: Doubtful due to fitness concerns.

Espanyol Injury Update

• Pol Lozano: Sidelined with an injury.

• Brian Oliván: Doubtful; late fitness test to determine availability.

Players to Watch

Barcelona

• Robert Lewandowski: Leading scorer, pivotal in attack.

• Pedri: Midfield maestro, controls the game’s tempo.

• Raphinha: Provides width and creativity on the flank.

Espanyol

• Martin Braithwaite: Key goal threat against his former club.

• Sergi Darder: Captain and central figure in midfield.

• Joselu: Target man, essential for aerial duels and hold-up play.

Tactical Overview

Barcelona

• Possession-Based Play: Emphasis on controlling the game through midfield dominance.

• High Pressing: Aggressive approach to regain possession quickly.

• Wide Attacks: Utilizing wingers to stretch the opposition defense.

Espanyol

• Defensive Solidity: Compact formation aiming to frustrate Barcelona’s attack.

• Counter-Attacks: Quick transitions to exploit spaces left by Barcelona’s high line.

• Set-Pieces: Leveraging height advantage in dead-ball situations.

Predicted Scoreline & Betting Tips

Score Prediction:

Barcelona 2-0 Espanyol

Top Betting Picks:

• Robert Lewandowski to score anytime

• Under 2.5 goals

• Barcelona to win to nil

FAQs – Espanyol vs Barcelona Predicted Lineup

1. What time is kick-off?

• The match starts at 20:30 CET on 15 May 2025.

2. Where will the match be played?

• At RCDE Stadium, Barcelona.

3. Who is likely to start for Barcelona?

• Key players include Lewandowski, Pedri, and Raphinha.

4. Is Ferran Torres fit to play?

• No, he is out due to recent appendicitis surgery.

5. How has Espanyol performed recently?

• Mixed results; aiming to secure La Liga safety.

Conclusion: Espanyol vs Barcelona Predicted Lineup & Final Thoughts

As the Catalan derby on 15 May 2025 approaches, anticipation continues to build for one of La Liga’s most passionate encounters. With both clubs entering this fixture with different ambitions—Barcelona chasing the title and Espanyol fighting to avoid the drop—this match promises drama, intensity, and tactical nuance. The Espanyol vs Barcelona predicted lineup reveals the strategic chessboard upon which this battle will be waged.

Barcelona’s high-octane attacking play, powered by stars like Lewandowski, Pedri, and Raphinha, stands in contrast to Espanyol’s structured, counter-attacking style led by Braithwaite and Darder. Injuries and suspensions will play a role, but this is a fixture where history, rivalry, and pride often outweigh the form book.

From head-to-head dominance to current form, Barcelona enter as heavy favorites, but Espanyol have proven time and again that form means little in a derby. Expect a tactically rich encounter, spirited performances, and a crowd at RCDE Stadium that will add to the spectacle.

Stay tuned to Fulltimeprediction.com for the latest team news, confirmed lineups, real-time live scores, and expert post-match breakdowns. Whether you’re a fan, a bettor, or a fantasy football player, we’ve got you covered.

For broader historical context, visit Espanyol–Barcelona rivalry on Wikipedia