Espanyol vs Valencia Prediction & Betting Tips (18 December)

After their setback suffered in the derby against Barça 3-1, the Pericos will want to make the charge against Valencia, which in terms of history is superior, but on paper, much less since it is the red lantern, which also means that it is a decisive poster for the latter in the race to maintain. The Catalans are clearly suffering with a series of 3 successive defeats in the elite, against Barça, Sevilla FC at home 0-2 and against Athletic Bilbao 4-1. In the ranking, the promoted team occupies the 17th spot and is therefore the first non-relegation player. In addition to being last in the ranking, this Valencia team risks being logically mentally damaged following the tragedy which affected the region with floods. It's complicated for the players of the Ché club to align the results but there, mentally speaking, we really wonder how they could do to reverse the situation.

Last weekend, at Mestalla, Valencia were to host Real Madrid but the meeting was ultimately postponed to a later date. The Chés therefore remain on a series of 5 matches without a victory in the league including two defeats against Real Sociedad 3-0, and for the reception of Las Palmas 2-3. During their last meeting, the visitors had to settle for a draw against Getafe 1-0.

Hard blow ahead for the Catalans with central defender Kumbulla? Out injured last weekend against Barça, he could stay at home today. He completes an infirmary already stocked with the wounds of Calero, Pol Lozano, Gragera and Exposito, seriously injured. Scorer in the derby against Barça, Javi Puado (4 goals in 10 appearances this season) is a great player, and this is not new since he was one of the main elements of promotion to the elite (16 achievements in D2). Author of 2 goals and 2 assists in La Liga, Jofre will be in the mix. Initially suspended for Real Madrid, starting midfielder Pepelu will serve his red card today.

As a bonus, there are a lot of defections to deplore for Valencia which sees its defensive sector deprived of Mouctar Diakhaby, Thierry Correia (ruptured cruciate ligaments), and Jesus Vazquez (adductor injury). Up front, the nugget Hugo Duro (13 goals last year) and Rafa Mir will also not be available. Arriving from Alaves this summer, Luis Rioja remains physically hampered and he will most likely be missing in Catalonia.