Barcelona were two points ahead of rivals Real Madrid during the World Cup break. Perhaps the team celebrated the victory of their Lionel Messi, but today they will play the Catalonia derby. The hosts have a record streak of successful face-to-face duels, which already stands at 24 games. What’s more, such a brilliant streak started in February 2009, tipping the scales in favor of the hosts. Moreover, Xavi does not mind continuing such success, since another fiasco in the Champions League is enough for him. It should be noted that Robert Lewandowski will not be able to play today due to disqualification, but in addition to a powerful attack, the Blue Garnet have no less reliable defense, which you can rely on in any game. Moreover, Barca have 11 clean sheets in the league, of which 10 home duels without conceded goals. In addition to the star forward, Roberto, Kessy and Araujo, who has a muscle injury, will not be able to help the team.
Today’s guests had nothing to celebrate on Christmas. Only one point separates the Catalans from the relegation zone and today the “parrots” will try to cling to the tournament points of any denomination. Espanyol have won two Copa del Rey matches ahead of this derby and manager Diego Martinez is hoping his decent top-flight personal best against Barcelona may be just a tonic. Nevertheless, the lack of goals scored harmed the White-Blues, while the only hope for the team is the defense, which conceded very little. The last two derbies at this stadium ended with just one goal scored, which the nominal guests still have hope for today. The team plans to concentrate their efforts on defense as much as possible in order to deliver a mortal blow later. Sanchez, Pedrosa, Gori, Gomez and Baer,who has an ankle injury, will not be able to play today. More today football predictions from the experts can be obtained from the link provided.
