Espanyol – Mallorca

Espanyol and Mallorca: La Liga's Underdogs Aiming High

Espanyol: Back in La Liga After a Two-Year Absence

Espanyol secured an immediate return to La Liga after finishing second in the Segunda Division last season. The Barcelona-based club has a long and storied history, having won the Copa del Rey four times and the UEFA Cup twice. They will be looking to make an impact in their first season back in the top flight, and they have the squad to do it.

Key Players

• Joselu: The Spanish striker is Espanyol's top scorer, having netted 14 goals in 38 games last season.
• Sergi Darder: The midfielder is the creative force behind Espanyol's attack. He is a gifted passer and has an eye for goal.
• Leandro Cabrera: The Uruguayan defender is a rock at the back for Espanyol. He is strong in the air and good on the ball.

Mallorca: Aiming to Establish Themselves in La Liga

Mallorca are back in La Liga after a six-year absence. The Balearic Island club has a modest history in the top flight, but they will be looking to establish themselves this season. They have a talented squad and a manager with a proven track record.

Key Players

• Vedat Muriqi: The Kosovan striker is Mallorca's main attacking threat. He is a powerful forward with a good goalscoring record.
• Dani Rodriguez: The midfielder is Mallorca's creative spark. He is a skillful player with an eye for a pass.
• Martin Valjent: The Slovakian defender is a key part of Mallorca's defense. He is a strong and physical player.

Espanyol vs Mallorca: Head-to-Head

Espanyol and Mallorca have met 42 times in La Liga, with Espanyol holding a slight edge. The two teams have won 16 games each, and 10 games have been drawn.

Recent Meetings

• 2020/21: Mallorca 1-2 Espanyol
• 2019/20: Espanyol 1-0 Mallorca
• 2018/19: Mallorca 2-2 Espanyol

Espanyol vs Mallorca: Prediction

This is a tough match to call. Both teams have quality players and are capable of winning. However, Espanyol has the home advantage and a slightly better squad. I predict that Espanyol will win 2-1.