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Summary:

Barcelona, leading the La Liga table, face Espanyol in a highly anticipated Catalan derby on Saturday night. Barcelona is on an eight-game winning streak in the league, holding a four-point lead over Real Madrid. Espanyol, surprisingly in fifth place after five consecutive wins, aim to disrupt Barcelona’s dominance. While Barcelona hasn’t lost at Espanyol’s stadium in two decades, Espanyol’s strong defense and recent form make them a formidable opponent. Barcelona will aim to secure a win before heading to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup. Both teams have key players returning from injury, but also some missing due to injury or AFCON. Experts predict a close match, with Barcelona slightly favored to win despite Espanyol’s strong defensive showing.

News Article:

Barcelona and Espanyol to clash in Catalan Derby

Barcelona, Spain – La Liga leaders FC Barcelona will visit Espanyol on Saturday night for the first Catalan derby of the 2026 season. The Blaugrana are currently riding an eight-game winning streak in league play, giving them a four-point lead over Real Madrid. However, Espanyol have been a surprise contender, climbing to fifth place after winning their last five matches.

The match at the RCDE Stadium marks Barcelona’s first game of 2026. Barcelona haven’t lost to Espanyol in the RCDE Stadium for nearly 20 years, but this season Espanyol have demonstrated an impressive defense, conceding just 17 goals, and have their sights set on upsetting their city rivals.

Espanyol will be missing Román Terrats through injury and Charles Pickel due to AFCON. However, Javier Puado could feature after recovering from a knee injury. Their hopes rely heavily on defenders like Leandro Cabrera and Fernando Calero, as well as attackers Tyrhys Dolan and Javier Milla.

Barcelona will see the return of Pedri from injury. Youngsters like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha are expected to feature in attack alongside Ferran Torres.

A win is crucial for Barcelona as they aim to maintain their lead in La Liga and carry momentum into the Spanish Super Cup next week.

Sports Illustrated predicts a close encounter, forecasting a 2-1 victory for Barcelona.

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