LaLiga 2022-23: Real Madrid vs Espanyol: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Periquitos will travel to Santiago Bernabeu for a Spanish League encounter against Los Blancos on Saturday.

Real Madrid has been struggling in their domestic competitions since their impressive comeback victory against Liverpool at Anfield. They had a draw with Atletico Madrid, lost to Barcelona 1-0 in the Copa del Rey, and had another draw last weekend against Beltis. Their recent poor performance has resulted in them being eight points behind the top spot in the LaLiga table. Therefore, they must win their next match, or it will be considered a disappointment.

Espanyol had two back-to-back wins but lost their last game against Valladolid. Although they are in the 13th position, they could find themselves in danger if they lose this match since they are only two points away from being in the relegation zone.

Kick-off:

Saturday, 11-03-2023, 01:00 pm (GMT)

Saturday, 11-03-2023 06:30 pm (IST)

Real Madrid (all competitions): D-L-D-W-W

Espanyol form (all competitions): L-W-W-L-D

Players to Watch

Real Madrid : Karim Benzema

Benzema has been a significant contributor for Los Blancos in LaLiga this season, scoring 11 goals and providing 3 assists. To turn their season around, he needs to deliver a match-winning performance in the upcoming game.

Espanyol: Joselu

Joselu has scored 11 goals for Espanyol in LaLiga this season. As Espanyol is currently struggling, Joselu's performance will be crucial in their upcoming match against Real Madrid. He is their best hope to achieve a positive result.

Match Facts

• Los Blancos have won 15 of their last 17 games against Espanyol in LaLiga
• At home, Real Madrid have won each of their last eight games against Espanyol in LaLiga
• Espanyol have not lost any of their last two visits to teams from Madrid in LaLiga

Injury and Team News

David Alaba, the central defender, has been absent from the team since the 5-2 victory over Liverpool at Anfield due to a hamstring injury. Left-back Ferland Mendy is also suffering from a muscle injury. Although Luka Modric missed the last game due to suspension, the experienced midfielder should be available for the upcoming match.

Brian Olivan was substituted after sustaining an injury for Espanyol in their last match against Valladolid. Espanyol's injured list includes Adria Pedrosa and Keidi Bare, who are both suffering from injuries to their groin and ankle.

Head-to-Head stats (in LaLiga)

Matches – 29

Real Madrid – 23

Espanyol – 3

Draws – 3

Predicted Lineup

Real Madrid predicted lineup (4-3-3)

Courtois; Dani Carvajal, Militao, Rudiger, Nacho; Camavinga, Modric, Kroos; Valverde, Benzema, Vini Jr.

Espanyol predicted lineup (4-4-2)

Pacheco; Oscar Gil, Gomez, Montes, Pierre-Gabriel; Puado, Vinícius Souza, Darder, Denis Suarez; Braithwaite, Joselu

Match Prediction

With a strong squad and a seemingly weaker opponent, Los Blancos is expected to have an easy victory. The front three players are anticipated to be the main factors in securing a comfortable win for the home team, allowing them to maintain their position in the title race.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2-0 Espanyol

Telecast

India: Sports 18, Voot, and Jio Cinema

UK: LaLiga TV

USA: ESPN +

Nigeria: SuperSport