Espanyol Aim to Bounce Back Against Alaves at the RCDE Stadium

Espanyol have enjoyed a strong season so far and currently sit fifth in La Liga with 34 points from 21 matches. With 10 wins already, the Catalan side remain in the race for what would be an unexpected European finish.

However, their momentum has slowed in recent weeks. Espanyol are yet to win a league game in 2026 and have taken just one point from their last four matches.

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That run includes defeats to Girona, Valencia and a 2–0 loss to Barcelona in their most recent outing, a result that increased the pressure heading into Friday night.

Despite that dip in form, Espanyol remain dangerous at home. They have won six of their 11 league matches at the RCDE Stadium this season and will be confident against an Alaves side that has struggled badly on the road.

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Espanyol have also shown they can compete with top teams, highlighted by their impressive 2–1 victory over Atletico Madrid earlier in the campaign.

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Ahead of this fixture, Espanyol posted on their official X handle that they are preparing fully for Friday’s match, a clear signal of focus as they look to get back to winning ways.

‘We’re still preparing for Friday’s match 

Softfootbll Alaves arrive in Barcelona sitting 15th, just one point above the relegation zone. While they have won two of their last three matches in all competitions, their away form remains a major concern.

They have picked up only four points from 10 away league games and have scored just four goals on their travels.

Possible Lineups

Espanyol:
Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Calero, Cabrera, Romero; Jofre, Gonzalez, Lozano, Terrats; Fernandez, Milla

Alaves:
Sivera; Tenaglia, Protesoni, Pacheco, Otto; Guridi, Blanco, Ibanez, Alena; Boye, Martinez

Team News

Espanyol remain without Javi Puado due to a knee injury, but Omar El Hilali returns from suspension. Pere Milla and Roberto Fernandez are expected to continue in attack.

Alaves are missing Facundo Garces through suspension and Nikola Maras through injury, while Denis Suarez is a doubt.

Prediction

Espanyol’s recent form has dipped, but with Alaves struggling away from home, the hosts should have enough quality to bounce back in front of their fans.

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