Espanyol vs. Real Madrid Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 1 February 2025 - bettingexpert

Get ready for a thrilling LaLiga clash as RCDE Stadium hosts Espanyol versus Real Madrid on 1 February 2025 at 20:00. Referee Alejandro Muniz will be at the helm of this intriguing match with high stakes for both sides.

Real Madrid, leading the LaLiga standings, looks to extend their four-point lead over Atlético Madrid. The team has been in stellar form, winning their last five league matches with an impressive away record, spearheaded by the dynamic Kylian Mbappé. Meanwhile, Espanyol struggles in 18th place, desperately needing points to climb out of the relegation zone and improve from their recent lacklustre performances.

The odds stack heavily in favour of Real Madrid, who are the bookmakers’ favourites with odds of 1.31 to win. Espanyol’s defence, having failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five games, faces an uphill battle against a robust attacking force. Our recommended bet is Real Madrid -1.25 (AH) with odds of 1.8, predicting a comfortable victory for the visitors.

The match not only impacts the title race for Real Madrid but could also be pivotal for Espanyol’s survival hopes. With both teams having key players like Javier Puado and Vinícius Júnior making significant impacts, expect high stakes and intense action under the floodlights.

Espanyol vs Real Madrid Prediction & Betting tip

• Recommended bet: Real Madrid -1.25 (AH).

• Recommended bet odds: 1.8.
  Based on our analysis and match facts, we recommend betting on Real Madrid with a -1.25 Asian Handicap. This betting tip is grounded in the following observations:

• Real Madrid’s dominant away form and consistent scoring record, having netted in 100% of their away matches this season.

• Espanyol’s defensive struggles, highlighted by their failure to keep a clean sheet in their last five games.

• Real Madrid’s determination to maintain their lead at the top of La Liga, aiming to extend their winning streak.
  | Espanyol vs Real Madrid Prediction | |
  |————————————-|———————————–|
  | Betting tip | Odds |
  | Real Madrid -1.25 (AH) | 1.8 |

• Real Madrid have shown exceptional offensive strength, averaging 4 goals per game in their last five fixtures.

• Espanyol have managed to score in 73% of their home matches but have struggled significantly in defense, conceding most in the 16-30 minute interval.

• With Real Madrid having scored first in 71% of their games this season, an early lead seems likely, paving the way for a comfortable win.

Espanyol vs Real Madrid Odds

The odds heavily favor Real Madrid in this clash at the RCDE Stadium. Given their dominant performance this season and Espanyol’s struggles in the relegation zone, it’s no surprise.

Espanyol vs Real Madrid Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
Espanyol	9.03
Draw	5.34
Real Madrid	1.31
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• Real Madrid, sitting comfortably at the top of LaLiga, are expected to extend their winning streak.
• Espanyol, currently 18th with a rocky defense, are considered underdogs in this matchup.
• A draw also seems unlikely, considering both teams’ contrasting forms and aspirations.

Espanyol Team Analysis

Espanyol Recent Performance ()

Espanyol’s last five matches have been a mixed bag, reflecting their ongoing struggle to escape the relegation zone. With a recent form of DWDLD, they have managed a single win but also encountered a couple of draws and a defeat. Notably, they have failed to maintain any clean sheets in their last five games, consistently letting in goals.

Home team	Away team	Result
Sevilla	Espanyol	1-1 (Draw)
Espanyol	Real Valladolid	2-1 (Win)
Espanyol	Leganes	1-1 (Draw)
Las Palmas	Espanyol	1-0 (Loss)
Espanyol	Valencia	1-1 (Draw)

Espanyol have averaged 1 goal per game over this period. This inconsistency in performance, coupled with defensive frailty, is problematic as they face league leaders Real Madrid next. Their challenge will be to secure points against tough competition to climb out of the relegation zone.

Espanyol Key Players

Espanyol will be heavily relying on their top scorer, Javier Puado, who has netted 7 goals this season. His ability to find the back of the net will be crucial for any hopes of an upset.
Another key figure in the lineup is Roberto Fernández, who will partner with Puado upfront. His contribution could be pivotal, especially in drawing the Real Madrid defence away, creating space for Espanyol’s attacks.
The midfield battle will be critical. Pol Lozano and Alex Kral are set to anchor the midfield, and their performance in disrupting Real Madrid’s rhythm could shape the match.
Expected lineup for Espanyol:

• Goalkeeper: Joan García
• Defenders: Omar El Hilali, Marash Kumbulla, Leandro Cabrera, Sergi Gomez
• Midfielders: Álvaro Tejero Sacristán, Alex Kral, Pol Lozano, Jofre Carreras
• Attackers: Javi Puado, Roberto Fernández Jaén
  Considering Real Madrid’s attacking prowess, Espanyol’s defenders, particularly Marash Kumbulla and Leandro Cabrera, will face a stern test against the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Rodrygo. This defensive duo’s ability to hold fort could be decisive.

Espanyol Suspensions & Injuries

Espanyol will have to navigate this crucial fixture without midfielder José Gragera, who is sidelined with a broken finger, and left-back Brian Oliván, who is doubtful due to a thigh injury. These absences could significantly impact their defensive solidity.

Player	Injury	Expected return
José Gragera	Broken finger	Unknown
Brian Oliván	Thigh injury	Doubtful

The absence of Gragera means manager Manolo González might have to reshuffle his midfield, relying more on Alex Kral and Pol Lozano to fill the void.
Brian Oliván’s potential absence puts added pressure on the defensive line, making it vital for the replacement to step up against Real Madrid’s potent attacking threats. These injuries may force Espanyol to adopt a more conservative approach to counter Real Madrid.

Espanyol Tactics and Formation

Espanyol Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-4-2
• Key Forwards: Javier Puado and Roberto Fernández Jaén
• Midfield Support: Álvaro Tejero Sacristán, Alex Kral, Pol Lozano, and Jofre Carreras
• Defensive Line: Joan García (GK), Omar El Hilali, Marash Kumbulla, Leandro Cabrera, Sergi Gomez
• Recent Defensive Weakness: No clean sheets in the last five games

Espanyol are expected to set up in a 4-4-2 formation, likely focusing on a solid defensive base to withstand Real Madrid’s attacking prowess. The onus will be on Kumbulla and Cabrera to lead the backline, with wide support from Hilali and Gomez.
Their midfield quartet will aim to provide a balance between defensive duties and transitioning the ball to the forwards, Puado and Fernández.
Given their recent form, Espanyol may adopt a conservative approach, hoping to capitalize on counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities.

Real Madrid Team Analysis

Recent Performance WWWWW

Real Madrid have been in scintillating form over their last five matches, showcasing their dominance and consistency at both domestic and European levels. They boast an average of 4.00 goals scored per match and have kept 2 clean sheets in their last five outings, highlighting their prowess in attack and solidity in defense.

Home team	Away team	Result
Brest	Real Madrid	0-3 (Win)
Real Valladolid	Real Madrid	0-3 (Win)
Real Madrid	Salzburg	5-1 (Win)
Real Madrid	Las Palmas	4-1 (Win)
Real Madrid	Celta Vigo	3-0 (Win) (ET)

Real Madrid’s latest performances have been nothing short of impressive, with standout victories against Brest and Real Valladolid. Their recent triumph in the Champions League against Salzburg adds to their momentum. Their consistent goal-scoring ability and strong defensive displays suggest that they are more than capable of securing another victory against Espanyol.

Real Madrid Key Players

Expected lineup for Real Madrid:

• Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
• Defenders: Raúl Asencio, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Antonio Rüdiger, Fran García
• Midfielders: Daniel Ceballos, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham
• Attackers: Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé

Real Madrid’s key players for this match include Kylian Mbappé, who is their top scorer with 15 goals. His pace and finishing will be crucial in breaking down Espanyol’s defense.
Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham will be vital in controlling the midfield, providing both defensive cover and creative support.

Important individual battles to watch:

• Kylian Mbappé vs Espanyol’s center backs: Mbappé’s speed and movement could be challenging for Marash Kumbulla and Leandro Cabrera.
• Jude Bellingham vs Alex Král: Bellingham’s attacking threat will test Král’s defensive capabilities.

These key players’ performances will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match.

Real Madrid Suspensions & Injuries

Player	Injury	Expected return
Daniel Carvajal	Cruciate ligament injury	Early September 2025
Éder Militão	Cruciate ligament injury	Late December 2025
Eduardo Camavinga	Hamstring Injury	Mid February 2025
Jesús Vallejo	Muscle injury	Doubtful

Currently, Real Madrid is grappling with several significant injuries. Daniel Carvajal and Éder Militão are sidelined long-term due to cruciate ligament injuries, depriving the team of experienced defensive options. Eduardo Camavinga’s hamstring issue continues to keep him out, affecting their midfield stability.

In addition, the status of Jesús Vallejo remains doubtful, further challenging their defensive depth. These injuries could test Real Madrid’s squad depth, putting pressure on their remaining fit players to step up, especially in their upcoming fixtures.

Real Madrid Tactics and Formation

Real Madrid’s Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Kylian Mbappe
• Midfield Trio: Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Daniel Ceballos
• Defensive Setup: Solid backline with Thibaut Courtois in goal, Antonio Rüdiger, and Fran García fortifying the defence.
• Notable Strategy: High pressing with quick transitions, leveraging the pace of Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior on the wings.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side is expected to maintain ball possession and dictate the tempo by utilizing their midfield’s versatility. With Mbappe spearheading the attack and real-time tactical flexibility, Madrid aims to capitalize on Espanyol’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Espanyol vs Real Madrid Head-to-Head Statistics

Home	Away	Result
Real Madrid	Espanyol	4-1
Real Madrid	Espanyol	3-1
Espanyol	Real Madrid	1-3
Real Madrid	Espanyol	4-0
Espanyol	Real Madrid	2-1

Real Madrid have dominated recent encounters against Espanyol, winning four of the last five matchups convincingly.
This historical edge gives Real Madrid a psychological advantage heading into this fixture at the RCDE Stadium.

Odds accurate as of 30.01.2025 20:01, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.