Exciting Derby Match: Espanyol vs. Girona

Espanyol and Girona are set to clash in a thrilling derby, as both teams experience a positive trajectory (Movistar LaLiga and DAZN coverage at 21:00 hours). The Pericos aspire to emulate Girona’s success from two seasons ago, aiming for a spot in the Champions League, currently just four points away. Under the guidance of Míchel, Girona appears to be gaining momentum and is focused on climbing the league standings. It promises to be an exhilarating match.

Coach Manolo González will aim to break the unfortunate streak against Míchel’s squad. Since Girona’s promotion to the top tier, and even during their encounters in the Liga Hypermotion, Espanyol has yet to secure a victory against Girona at the RCDE Stadium. In terms of personnel, Espanyol will be without Javi Puado, who suffered a torn lateral ligament in his right knee during a match against Levante and will miss the remainder of the season. However, Pol Lozano returns after serving a suspension.

The Girona team arrives at this match following two consecutive victories in LaLiga, marking their first winning streak of the season. Despite ongoing injury setbacks and a lack of reinforcements during the winter transfer window, Girona is determined to push forward. With the anticipated departure of Jhon Solís to Birmingham, Coach Míchel is set to activate Claudio Echeverri, while the squad will miss Solís, as well as Lass (suspended), and injured players Portu, Van de Beek, Ounahi, Witsel, and Abel Ruiz.

In the upcoming match, Roberto will face off against Vanat. The Espanyol striker has struggled with his finishing in recent matches but continues to showcase his significance and prowess for the team. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian forward is currently enjoying his best form with Girona, having scored an impressive backheel goal against Osasuna.