Espanyol – Atletico Madrid LaLiga: 22nd April 2017

The dream of European cups, still standing

Espanyol Barcelona ranked No. 9 in the Primera Division, with a total of 49 points. This was only 4 points behind Athletic Bilbao, the Basque being the last position to ensure presence in the Europa League. Thus, for a series of compelling results, Barcelona’s second team can still hope to represent Spain in intercontinental competitions. However, in order for this objective to be achieved, it must provide a solid game, especially in front of opponents such as Atletico Madrid.

The most important detail that must be mentioned in terms of the first 11 with which Espanyol will tackle the confrontation is the return of Sanchez, which expires suspension. Espanyol’s midfielder will make pair with Roca in the middle of the pitch, the two of whom will serve the two strikers, Caicedo and Moreno.

Third place in danger

On the other hand, Atletico Madrid leads a long distance fight with FC Sevilla to occupy the position with Nuan 3 and, implicitly, for direct qualification in the next Champions League. The 65 points so far have placed Diego Simeone’s team in pole position for the podium season, with Seville standing three times in the past. However, the fatigue caused by the Champions League matches could affect Atletico’s game, and this could be seen in the Leicester duel, in which the English have managed to speculate several times at Atletico defenses.

In terms of the Catalunya duel, “white-red” can not rely on Croatian Vrsaljko. It is injured at the knee and will lack more time. Also, it is extremely possible that Augusto Fernandez and Juanfran will not be recovered until the match time.

Probable teams Espanyol – Atletico Madrid

Espanyol (4-4-2): Lopez – Martin, Lopez, Reyes, Lopez – Piatti, Sanchez, Roca, Jurado – Caicedo, Moreno.
Absente: Duarte (injured).

Atletico Madrid (4-4-2): Cloud – Savic, Hernandez, Godin, Luis – Carrasco, Niguez, Gabi, Koke – Torres, Griezmann.
Absentee: Juanfran, Vrsaljko, Fernandez (injured).