Espanyol vs Betis: prediction for the La Liga fixture

Espanyol returned to La Liga after a season in Segunda. Since the first rounds team from Barcelona is fighting for every single point, but they still lack consistency, plus they don't have enough options for rotation. 

One of the most successful Catalan clubs got off to a great start in Copa del Rey, they won first three matches of that competition, beating Solares (3:2), Palencia (2:1) and Ponferradina (2:1 on pens). But The Budgerigars were suddenly beaten in the fourth round by Mallorca (1:2).

After 21 rounds of La Liga Vicente Moreno's men have seven victories and six draws, which brought 27 points and an 11th spot in the standings. Team's weakest link is their offensive line, Espanyol scored only 25 goals so far. 

After a victory over Valencia (2:1) The White-Blues suffered a home defeat to Elche (1:2) and drew to Cadiz (2:2). 

Herrera, Pedrosa, Vila and Bare won't feature in the match. 

On the previous weekend Betis had a successful match in Copa del Rey, in thich they managed to beat their local rivals, Sevilla. We should note that this match started on Saturday, but was interrupted due to a player being struck in the head by a stick thrown from the stands. Match was eventually resumed on Sunday. 

Team also performed successfully in the Europa League, the White-Greens recorded three victories and a draw in the group stage, which brought them a play-off spot. 

After 21 rounds of La Liga Beticos have 11 victories and four draws, which brought 37 points and a 3rd spot in the standings. We should note that team has the second-best goal-scoring record in the league with 37 goals.

Juanmi is team's best goalscorer with 12 goals to his name.

Akouokou, Bartra, Joaquin and Montoya are unavailable for the upcoming match.