Alaves vs Espanyol Predictions

Expectations have risen at Espanyol following a fine 7^th place finish last term; however Periquitos found themselves outclassed by Sevilla at RCDE Stadium on the opening day of the new La Liga campaign last weekend. A trip to Alaves on match day two represents a much softer task for David Gallego’s side, who will be gunning to carry over the excellent early season form that they have shown in the Europa League.

Indeed, it almost felt as if Espanyol were caught out by the standard of opposition when they faced Sevilla on match day one. Periquitos began their 2019/20 a few weeks ago now in continental competition and have been readily rolling inferior teams over in Europa League qualification, beating Stjarnan Gardabaer and Lucerne by aggregate scores of 7-1 and 6-0 respectively prior to their clash against Sevillistas.

The Andalusian’s proved too good though as they wrapped up a cosy 0-2 success thanks to goals from Reguilon and Nolito, and Espanyol must now look to get off the mark at Mendizorroza where they have won just once in their last 14 visits (D4, L9).

A comfortable midweek 3-1 victory at home to Zorya in the Europa League Play-offs will have done much to restore Periquitos’ confidence levels, but like previous rounds it’s difficult to assess exactly what Espanyol achieved in overcoming their Ukrainian opponents. One significant positive for Gallego’s men is that they have lost just one of their last eight away La Liga fixtures, so it’s possible they will be able to pick up something here despite a 2-1 defeat in last season’s corresponding contest.

Alaves endured a woeful end to 2018/19 with just one win and six defeats from their final ten La Liga matches, but they began the new campaign and life under Asier Garitano on a positive note last weekend with a 1-0 triumph at home to Levante.

The points were settled at Mendizorroza by new signing Joselu not long after the half time interval, but it’s quite telling that Alaves only enjoyed 37% possession throughout the game. Espanyol undoubtedly represent stronger opposition for Garitano’s side this weekend, so on the basis of that performance it’s perhaps asking a bit much of the Basque outfit to extend their 100% start to the season.

So all told, a draw is probably the most realistic outcome in this weekend’s clash; however we’re avoiding the match betting and backing both teams to score instead which catches the eye at odds-against.

Both sides netted in their 2018/19 encounters, whilst the hosts have managed to score in seven of their last nine top flight games. Espanyol may have drawn a blank against Sevilla last weekend however they bagged in their final nine matches last season, and as mentioned, they have been firing consistently in Europa League action so far.