In the world of La Liga, Levante and Espanyol couldn't be on more different trajectories as they clash this weekend at Estadio Ciudad de Valencia. While Levante is firmly entrenched in the relegation zone with just 13 points from 17 matches, Espanyol finds itself within shouting distance of European competition, sitting comfortably in fifth with 33 points. The stakes couldn't be higher for Levante; a loss here could send them deeper into despair, while a win for Espanyol could bolster their top-four ambitions and reinforce their claim to one of the coveted spots.
Predicted Lineups:
Levante: GK: Mathew Ryan, DEF: Jeremy Toljan, Adrián de la Fuente, Manuel Sánchez, Matias Moreno; MID: Kervin Arriaga, Iker Losada; FWD: Iván Romero, Etta Eyong, Carlos Álvarez. Espanyol: GK: Marko Dmitrović, DEF: Carlos Romero, Leandro Cabrera, Fernando Calero, Omar El Hilali; MID: Pol Lozano, Edu Expósito; FWD: Roberto Fernández, Pere Milla, Tyrhys Dolan.
Let's break down how each team has been performing lately. Levante turned heads with an unexpected smash-and-grab victory against Sevilla last week-a match that saw them score three goals despite being heavily outshot and out-possessed (only 35% possession). But prior to that? Well, they dropped points like confetti at a New Year's celebration. They've secured only three wins in their last 17 outings and are struggling defensively-conceding too many fouls and failing to close out matches efficiently.
Meanwhile, Espanyol comes off a rough patch after facing local rivals Barcelona-a match where they mustered just three shots on target compared to Barca's dominant display. Prior performances were far stronger; victories against Athletic Club and Getafe earlier showed their resilience despite the latest setback. With ten wins this season already under their belt-the most glaring contrast is the potency of Espanyol's attacking force led by Pere Milla who has scored four times already. Their impressive passing game usually allows them to control possession effectively-which will be crucial against a side like Levante that often yields possession but tries to counter quickly.
Now let's dig into some key statistics that reveal underlying trends. For instance:
- In terms of ball possession during recent games: Espanyol has dominated with over 56% on average-indicating they often dictate play-while Levante struggles to keep up with barely hitting above 40%.
- Shots on goal tell another story. Though Levante may have surprised Sevilla recently with finishing prowess (3-0), they typically rank low in shot efficiency overall across their previous matches-averaging only about five attempts per game recently.
- If we turn our eyes toward expected goals (xG), it's revealing: Despite securing notable wins lately through grit over glamour-Levante had an xG total significantly lower than expected in earlier defeats indicating poor conversion rates when opportunities arose.
On the flip side for Espanyol:
- Their attack thrives on high-volume shots-their match against Athletic Club where they scored twice featured an impressive xG of nearly one while conceding almost none. The tactical fluidity provided by players like Roberto Fernández and Pere Milla can prove decisive when navigating through tighter defenses like Levante's.
While both teams can boast some stand-out players-Espanyol's defense remains solid with Leandro Cabrera leading from the back registering critical tackles while going forward too often forces opposition defenders into tricky situations with his footwork and pace.
But don't count out Levante completely; amid their struggles lies resilience and flashes of brilliance epitomized by Iván Romero-a player who's been known to light up big moments when least expected (notably his two-goal performance previously).
As we head into this crucial clash:
- Watch for tactical adjustments from Levante-they cannot afford another lethargic start if they're hoping to draw first blood.
- Conversely for Espanyol: A swift start could demoralize a fragile Levante side struggling under pressure making early goals pivotal.
When you put all these ingredients together-this fixture may very well come down to which team blinks first under pressure. If past patterns hold true coupled with current form-and assuming no major shake-ups occur in lineups or tactics-I'm feeling confident predicting a decisive victory for Espanyol.
Expect this match-up at Ciudad de Valencia to tilt in favor of Espanyol's superior firepower combined with defensive solidity-as they'll capitalize on every mistake made by the home side sending Levante further into crisis mode. My hot take? It'll finish 2-0 in favor of Espanyol unless Levante conjures up something magical-a rare occurrence given recent displays-but football is nothing if not unpredictable!