Having climbed to within one point of Europa League positions, Espanyol will have plenty of motivation to try and defeat mighty Real Madrid in the penultimate fixture of the season.

Los Blancos have crashed out of the Champions League, while their hopes of lifting the La Liga trophy may be over his weekend even if they win at Cornella El Prat.

While the club officials did a brilliant job to battle serious financial problems, the sporting sector have also impressed this season, seriously exceeding all expectations.

Operating on a tight budget, los Periquitos were unable to make big name signings, but coach Sergio and his men defied the odds to mount a serious challenge for European positions.

Following the home loss to local rivals Barcelona, Espanyol went on to take seven points from next three fixtures and they now sit just one point behind seventh-placed Malaga.

But, with Athletic Bilbao and Celta Vigo also in the race for the final Europa League berth, los Periquitos have no choice but to try and beat Real Madrid, and they are 6.50 (11/2) to succeed in their quest.

The hosts will have Jose Canas back from suspension, meaning coach Sergio will have fully fit squad to select from this weekend.

Felipe Caicedo will continue to play through the pain, but he has rejected the opportunity to represent Ecuador at the 2015 Copa America.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Casilla – Arbilla, Colotto, A. Gonzalez, Fuentes – Abraham, Canas, Victor Sanchez – Stuani, Caicedo, Sergio Garcia.

This season is quickly turning into a major disappointment for Real Madrid, who are almost certain to stay without a single major trophy.

Up until recently, los Blancos were quite impressive on most fronts, having earlier crashed out of Copa del Rey, but the poor finish of the campaign is going to cost them dearly.

In all fairness, injuries to Luka Modric, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema came at the worst possible time and that can be seen as one of the reasons for the under-par performances.

But, the reality is Real Madrid did not do enough to pip Juventus to a place in the Champions League final, while a 2-2 home draw with Valencia all but ended their title hopes.

With Barcelona facing a tricky tie against Atletico, los Blancos will try to keep their title bid alive for another week, so bear in mind away win pays 1.55 (5/9).

The likes of Sergio Ramos and Toni Kroos have joined Luka Modric in the infirmary, meaning Asier Illarramendi could start in midfield.

Probable starting line-up (4-3-3): Casillas – Carvajal, Pepe, Varane, Marcelo – Isco, Illarramendi, Rodriguez – Bale, Benzema, Ronaldo.