Line-ups for the LaLiga matchup

A match that defines more than three points

The RCDE Stadium is preparing to be the scene of a crucial confrontation this Saturday, January 11, when Espanyol hosts Leganés starting at 6:30 p.m. This duel, corresponding to LaLiga EA Sports, pits two teams fighting to distance themselves from the relegation spots.

Just three points separate Espanyol, in 18th place and currently in the red zone, from Leganés, which occupies 15th place. Both teams arrive with pressure, aware that this match could set the course for their aspirations to remain in the top category. .

Espanyol: Breaking the bad streak, an obligation

The team led by Manolo González has not been able to celebrate a victory since November, closing a disastrous December with defeats against direct rivals such as Las Palmas and Getafe, in addition to a painful elimination in the Copa del Rey against the modest Barbastro.

For the parakeet coach, this match is a unique opportunity to reverse the situation. “It is a key duel, although not a final. We are playing at home, in front of our people, and we must take advantage of it,” he stated in the preview.

Espanyol needs to regain its strength at home, since this month of January will be decisive: in addition to Leganés, it will host Real Valladolid, current bottom team, before visiting the always complicated Sevilla.

Leganés: Overcoming the blow of losing Haller

Leganés, for its part, arrives with high morale after advancing to the round of 16 of the Copa del Rey by defeating Cartagena. However, Borja Jiménez’s team also faces significant challenges, especially after the departure of Sébastien Haller, who did not meet expectations and returned to Utrecht after a discreet step.

In LaLiga, the last cucumber victory was a surprising 0-1 against FC Barcelona at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, a victory that marked the crisis of the Blaugrana team. Now, Leganés will seek to replicate that performance at the RCDE Stadium to move even further away from the danger zone.

Probable alignments: The tactical bet of González and Jiménez

RCD Espanyol

• Goalie: Joan Garcia
• Defenses: Omar, Kumbulla, Cabrera, Oliván
• Midfielders: Jofre, Lozano, Kral, Antoniu
• Fronts: Cheddira, Puado
• Coach: Manolo Gonzalez

CD Leganes

• Goalie: Dimitrovic
• Defenses: Alti, Sergio González, Tapia, Nastasic, Javi Hernández
• Midfielders: Cissé, Neyou, Brasanac
• Fronts: Munir, De la Fuente
• Coach: Borja Jimenez

A duel full of tension and opportunities

Both teams know that they cannot afford a setback. For Espanyol, winning at home against a direct rival would not only mean leaving the relegation spots, but also regaining the confidence lost in recent weeks. For Leganés, it would be a golden opportunity to widen the gap with the teams below and consolidate their position in the table.

Ninety minutes that can mark the season

The clash between Espanyol and Leganés is more than a match: it is a battle for survival in LaLiga. Statistics, moments of form and losses add ingredients to a duel that promises emotions until the end.

Who will emerge victorious in this crucial fight to escape relegation? The RCDE Stadium has the last word.