The upcoming Segunda Division clash between Espanyol and Sporting Gijon promises to be an intense battle as both teams aim for promotion to La Liga.
This article delves into the prediction, team news, current form, and key match details.
Match Preview
Espanyol's Recent Form
Espanyol enters this match on the back of an impressive 17-game unbeaten run.
Having been relegated last season, they are now keen to bounce back to the top flight, finishing fourth in the league with 69 points.
Their most recent match saw Javi Puado score an 88th-minute winner in the first leg, giving Espanyol a crucial 1-0 lead heading into this decisive fixture.
Sporting Gijon's Recent Form
Sporting Gijon finished the season in fifth place with 65 points, securing their first playoff appearance since the 2017-18 campaign.
However, they face a challenging task, having lost six of their last nine away matches.
Despite this, they managed a vital 1-0 victory in their last away game against Eldense, breaking a three-game winless streak on the road.
Team News
Espanyol
Espanyol will be without Omar Sadik, Pol Lozano, and Eduardo Exposito due to injuries.
Additionally, Sergi Gomez will miss the match following a suspension. Danish striker Martin Braithwaite, who finished as the Segunda Division’s top scorer with 22 goals, will be pivotal for Espanyol's attack.
Sporting Gijon
Sporting Gijon might miss the services of Gio Zarfino, Dani Queipo, and Uros Djurdjevic due to fitness issues.
Midfielder Nacho Mendez could feature after returning from injury. The attacking duo of Juan Otero and Gaspar Campos, who both scored 10 goals this season, will be key for Gijon.
Prediction
Espanyol has a strong record against Sporting Gijon, remaining unbeaten in their last three home games against them.
Given Espanyol's current form and home advantage, a resolute display is expected to hold Sporting Gijon to a draw, allowing Espanyol to protect their first-leg advantage.
Our Prediction: Espanyol 1-1 Sporting Gijon
Gijón 
Espanyol 
