Villarreal vs Espanyol preview

March 31, 2012
By: Frank Beresford

Villarreal boosted their survival hopes with an away victory over Rayo Vallecano and the Yellow Submarine can make a giant step towards keeping their La Liga status by beating Espnayol.

Los Periquitos damaged their Champions League dreams as they were beaten at home by Malaga and they will see the match at El Madrigal as a perfect opportunity to make amends.

This is without a doubt the most difficult season for Villarreal in club’s recent history as the team that started the season in Champions League group stages are now fighting for their lives.

Numerous injuries to star players were probably the main reason why the El Madrigal outfit failed to hit the ground running early into the season, whereas frequent managerial changes certainly did not help.

New boss Miguel Angel Lotina appears to have managed to get the team going and the team produced two brilliant performances under his command.

After stopping mighty Real at El Madrigal, Villarreal impressed to beat Rayo Vallecano away from home, so no wonder they are now 2.10 (11/10) with 888sport to beat Espanyol as well.

Brazilian striker Nilmar has picked up a hamstring injury against Rayo and is set to miss out, just like long-term casualty Giuseppe Rossi.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Diego Lopez – Mario, Zapata, Musacchio, Juan Oriol – Borja Valero, Senna, Bruno, Cani – Ruben, Martinuccio.

Espanyol are giving their best to ensure a top 4 finish and Champions League qualification, but appears that los Periquitos don’t have enough in them to battle with the likes of Malaga and Atletico Madrid.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side have been doing really well this season and they look set to finish the season in Europa League places, which would definitely be considered a success.

Espanyol missed a great opportunity to close the gap behind their top 4 rivals as they lost their home game against Malaga, but a victory at El Madrigal would see them get back in contention for Champions League places. BetVictor pays 3.90 (29/10) on away win.

Back-up striker Rui Fonte has been ruled out with an ankle injury, whereas Juan Albin remains doubtful with a hamstring problem.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Casilla – J. Lopez, Rodriguez, Forlin, Didac – Baena, Gomez – Weiss, Verdu, Coutinho – Uche.

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