Espanyol Aims for Upset Against Atlético Madrid Behind Cabrera’s Strong Performance

omidbasir- This weekend, Espanyol will visit the Metropolitano Stadium to take on Atlético Madrid, a venue where they have performed relatively well in recent seasons. The team aims to surprise and break their current negative momentum. Key to this effort will be the restoration of their defensive solidity and effectiveness in both penalty areas, an aspect emphasized by coach Manolo González. Atlético Madrid concedes the fewest goals in the league, thus Espanyol must make the most of their opportunities.

To achieve this, Espanyol will need the best performance from Leandro Cabrera. Known as one of the team’s defensive stalwarts, Cabrera has also emerged as a significant offensive asset, being the defender with the highest number of headed goals across Europe’s top five leagues. Only nine players have outscored him in this regard, all of whom are attackers or midfielders, highlighting his prowess during set-piece situations. The Uruguayan’s aerial strength is remarkable, as he is the central defender with the most successful aerial duels in the league.

So far this season, Cabrera has scored three headed goals against Villarreal, Getafe, and Valencia, all from corner kicks, helping Espanyol secure crucial points. The team leads La Liga with ten headed goals this season, and Cabrera has played a vital role in this achievement, contributing to 10% of the team’s total goals. This is particularly noteworthy as they prepare to face Atlético Madrid, the league’s most defensively solid team.

In his primary defensive role, the Uruguayan is currently the central defender with the most aerial duels won in Spanish football, totaling 76, and he also leads in overall duels contested with 128. Cabrera’s duel count surpasses that of notable players like Cubarsí and Asencio combined. Furthermore, he has shown considerable improvement with the ball at his feet, boasting the best forward passing rate among central defenders to break lines. Despite his age, Cabrera is experiencing a peak phase in his career and has already become the fourth foreign player with the most appearances for Espanyol, as well as the third central defender to don the club’s white and blue colors extensively.