Espanyol and Valencia approach this rescheduled encounter as two prime candidates for relegation. Valencia hold an advantage over their rivals with several games in hand, yet it's unlikely they'll retrieve all lost points—especially with the Catalans forming a solid block in defence.
Since their return to La Liga, Espanyol have not been thrilling fans with many goals. Based on xG (14.94), only three clubs in the league are weaker than them. Their draw with Osasuna (0:0) left them in the relegation zone. Against the Pamplona side, Espanyol created a mere 0.41 xG while allowing 0.26 xGA without conceding a single shot on target—showcasing their defensive concentration.
Valencia's emotional victory over Real Betis (4:2) a month ago was their last strong performance. In December, they fell in La Liga to Rayo Vallecano and Real Valladolid (both 0:1), generating 2.07 xG across 180 minutes—let down by poor finishing. This trip to Catalonia might be the last match for their coaching staff, as the management is seeking a new specialist, though this change might not help them escape the bottom of the table.
Without injured forward Irvin Cardona and suspended midfielder Pol Lozano (yellow card accumulation), Espanyol barely have any creative players left. At home against a struggling Valencia, the Catalans are likely to insist on a tight match—neither side will offer much in terms of goals.
