Barcelona are going through a very tough spell, having lost their last four matches. That run of form will be a real concern for them, especially as they head into a local derby. In contrast, Espanyol have been a bit more solid lately, with a win, a draw, and a loss in their last five games, suggesting they are in a slightly better place right now.

When these two teams meet, there are usually plenty of goals. In the last eight head-to-head matches, only one game has ended with less than two goals, and the most recent one was a high-scoring affair. Given Barcelona's recent struggles and Espanyol's more stable form, this match feels very close and open, with both teams likely to find the net. Espanyol will feel they have a real chance to take something from this game.