Espanyol VS Malaga Match Prediction

Espanyol are undefeated in their last eight matches against Malaga in all competitions, so the head-to-head record is strongly in favour of the hosts here. The last three matches between the sides have all seen under 2.5 goals scored, so a tight match looks to inevitable for this game. 

Last year in La Liga, Espanyol won this game 2-0 at home, while Malaga claimed a point with a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture later in the season. Three of Malaga's last four visits to Espanyol have ended with the result being a draw.

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Espanyol v Malaga: Prediction

Malaga have failed to score in their last three away matches so it is hard to find a lot of reasons to back them in this match, while nine of Malaga's last 11 games have seen under 2.5 goals, so it looks likely to be a close affair with little goal action. If Espanyol can maintain their attacking from the 6-4 loss to Sevilla while tightening up at the back, they are certainly capable of a home win.

Espanyol v Malaga: Betting Tips

Odds of 6/5 on a home win for Espanyol look decent value, while those wanting to side with Malaga despite their poor head-to-head record in this game are offered a price of 12/5. The draw looks to be the best option from the match odds market and is available at 23/10.

Under 2.5 goals looks to be a safe and solid selection for this game at odds of 13/19, even those Espanyol's opening match of the season featured an incredible 10 goals.

Defensive changes for Espanyol are surely on the cards after a 6-4 battering at the hands of Sevilla in their opening league match highlighted the defensive issues in the team. There were positives for Espanyol as well, however, with four different scorers getting on the scoresheet. New coach Quique Sanchez Flores may bring in Martin Demichelis, with Oscar Duarte an injury doubt.

Espanyol likely XI:

Malaga were just five minutes from victory on the opening weekend, but Fran Merida's equaliser snatched a point for newly-promoted Osasuna. There was still a lot to like about the performance of Juande Ramos' side, who look like they could be in for a good season. Adnane Tighadouini and Weligton are unavailable due to injury, with Bakary Kone continuing in defence for Malaga.

Malaga likely XI:

Espanyol were on the end of a ruthless Sevilla last weekend but are unlikely to be caused as many problems at the back by Malaga this time out. Malaga could not beat Osasuna at home and are hard to support here as a result. By far the most likely result here looks to be a low-scoring affair, with not much entertainment expected to be on show for the fans.

Malaga are without a single win in their last eight games against Espanyol in all competitions.