5 bold La Liga predictions: Espanyol and Sevilla draw in battle of the contenders

1. Sevilla-Espanyol ends in a stalemate

Not many people would have been expecting this fixture to be second place versus third place at this stage in the season, but these two sides have exceeded expectations with their contrasting styles. Pablo Machin has created a potent attacking force at Sevilla with his use of an exciting 3-5-2 system, whereas Rubi has implemented a solid 4-4-2 shape that is tough to break down and very effective at pressing high to hinder opposition buildup play.

Sevilla have home advantage which could be key, although their only loss at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan came against Getafe who utilize a similar style. Espanyol have been far from impressive away from home with only one win in six games, but they have the tools to frustrate Los Hispalenses.

The use of Ever Banega, Franco Vazquez and Pablo Sarabia in central midfield means Sevilla have creativity and incisiveness aplenty in midfield. This means they’re capable of breaking down a stubborn defensive shape, but also that they struggle defending in transition.

Espanyol are on a six-game unbeaten run in the league while Sevilla have only lost one of their last six matches in all competitions. Therefore, a stalemate seems the most logical outcome, although it’s likely to be a score draw. Borja Iglesias has five goals in his last six appearances; he appears to have settled into the side after joining in the summer. Sevilla have an impressive newcomer of their own in Andre Silva, who has seven goals in 10 league games, but he’s out due to injury. Therefore, they’ll have to rely on the far less clinical Luis Muriel.