The Catalan derby is set to ignite La Liga as RCD Espanyol host FC Barcelona at the RCDE Stadium on January 3, 2026. This highly anticipated clash pits the in-form Periquitos against the league-leading Blaugrana in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. With both teams riding winning streaks, fans are eager for insights into the match preview, team news, potential lineups, and score prediction. As Barcelona aim to extend their dominance in the Derbi Barceloní, Espanyol look to pull off an upset on home turf.
Match Overview and Recent Form
Espanyol have enjoyed a remarkable resurgence this season, sitting comfortably in fifth place with 33 points from 17 matches (10 wins, 3 draws, 4 defeats). Their promotion last term has been followed by a strong campaign under manager Manolo Gonzalez, highlighted by a five-match winning streak in La Liga, including victories over Sevilla, Celta Vigo, Rayo Vallecano, Getafe, and Athletic Bilbao. At home, they’ve secured six wins from nine games, boasting a solid defensive record: top in clean sheets and among the best in goals conceded. However, the hosts face a stern test against their city rivals, whom they haven’t beaten in La Liga since February 2009.
Barcelona, the reigning champions, top the table with 46 points from 18 outings (15 wins, 1 draw, 2 defeats), holding a four-point lead over Real Madrid. Hansi Flick’s side has been unstoppable, winning their last eight league games and seven across all competitions, including a 2-0 triumph over Villarreal before the winter break. The Blaugrana boast the division’s best attack with 51 goals scored, though their defense has conceded 20 – the most among the top seven teams. This match marks the first Derbi Barceloní of the 2025-26 season, with Barcelona seeking a fourth straight win over Espanyol.
Team News and Injuries
Espanyol: The hosts will miss midfielder Charles Pickel, who is away with DR Congo at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Roman Terrats due to a muscular injury. Forward Javi Puado could return from a knee issue but is unlikely to start after being sidelined since October. No major surprises are expected in the lineup, with Roberto Fernandez leading the attack.
Barcelona: Key absences include Andreas Christensen and Gavi, both out with knee injuries. However, Ronald Araujo returns after a brief mental health break, providing a boost to the defense. Dani Olmo (shoulder) and Pedri (muscle) are doubtful but could feature, potentially shifting Eric Garcia to defense if Pedri starts. Lamine Yamal is fit despite missing a training session earlier. Goalkeeper Joan Garcia, a summer signing from Espanyol, faces added pressure from hostile home fans.
Potential Lineups
Based on recent form and team updates, here are the expected starting XIs:
Espanyol (4-3-3): Dmitrovic (GK) — El Hilali, Calero, Cabrera, Romero — Gonzalez, Edu Exposito, Lozano — Dolan, Fernandez, Milla.
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Joan Garcia (GK) — Kounde, Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Balde — Pedri, de Jong — Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Raphinha — Ferran Torres.
Score Prediction
Given Barcelona’s attacking prowess and unbeaten run, they are favorites to edge a competitive derby. Espanyol’s home form and defensive resilience could keep it close, but the Blaugrana’s quality in the final third – led by Ferran Torres (11 La Liga goals) and Lamine Yamal – should prevail. We predict a 1-2 victory for Barcelona, with over 2.5 goals likely due to both teams’ recent scoring trends.
