As we have predicted Espanyol ended the four-match losing run with a comprehensive victory over Real Sociedad and Mauricio Pochettino’s side now hope to continue in the same manner. Mallorca slipped to bottom part of the table following back to back defeats to Real Sociedad and Barcelona, and the Islanders will have something to prove at Cornella El Prat.

What a way to return to winning ways!

Espanyol established themselves as a real force to be reckoned with at home, with their performances at Cornella El Prat leaving little to be desired. The impressive home showings together with some decent performances on the travels saw los Periquitos climb to the European places and they now have a historic chance of clinching European qualification. Mauricio Pochettino’s side recently embarked on a four-match losing run which was more a consequence of the difficult fixture list than anything else, but it made a lot of people wonder if Espanyol have what it takes to keep the high position in the standings. Despite being under tremendous pressure, los Periquitos returned to winning ways with a 4:1 victory over Real Sociedad, which served as a major confidence boost for the players. With the pressure finally off the players’ backs, Espanyol are expected to continue the impressive home run against out-of-form Mallorca.

Midfielder Javi Marquez picked up an ankle injury against Real Sociedad and he is out of contention, just like Ivan de la Pena, Juan Forlin, Raul Baena and Osvaldo. Javier Chica returns to the side after missing the weekend’s game through suspension.

Mallorca on the downtrend

Mallorca started the season in great manner and they played really well until the beginning of December, but they then saw a major downtrend in form that still seems to last. Having lost 10 out of last 14 games in all competitions, the Islanders should be happy they are still well clear of the relegation zone, although boss Michael Laudrup will have to do something in order to wake up his players from the lethargy. After losing to Real Sociedad, Mallorca suffered a heavy defeat at home to Barcelona and they players enter this game really low on confidence. After losing six of their last seven away games, the Islanders have little to hope for from the away game with one of the best home sides in the league, so another defeat looks on the cards.

Boss Michael Laudrup has no fresh injury worries, although Ivan Ramis and Victor Casadesus remain sidelined. Important midfielder Jose Luis Marti is suspended after picking up his 5th booking of the season.

Verdict

Now that they have finally ended the poor run, Espanyol can play without any pressure and everything suggests los Periquitos will further improve their impressive home record against struggling Mallorca. The Islanders are one of the worst travelers in La Liga and I don’t see how they can survive the trip to Cornella El Prat.

Our prediction: Home win

Odds: 2.00 (1/1)

Bookmaker: Bet365