Espanyol aims to break their winless streak in 2026 as they take on Levante in a pivotal La Liga matchup that impacts both the top and bottom of the standings.
Earlier this season, the Catalan team appeared to be strong candidates for a top-four finish, but their performance has deteriorated significantly in recent months.
Since their 2–1 win against Athletic Bilbao in December, they have not secured a league victory, which has dropped them to 12th place.
Now only six points from a European spot and just above the relegation zone, pressure is increasing on Manolo González and his team, following a 1–0 loss to Rayo Vallecano that marked their fourth defeat in five matches.
On the other hand, Levante comes into the match with a bit more momentum, having recently secured vital victories against Sevilla and Getafe, improving their position in the fight against relegation.
Though currently sitting in 19th place, they are only a few points away from safety, making this match essential for their survival hopes.
Levante has heightened expectations for the game by sharing photos of their training sessions on their official X handle, showcasing an intense preparation for the upcoming match as they seek to maintain their recent positive form.
Team News
Espanyol will be without long-term injury absentee Javi Puado, while Fernando Calero is expected to undergo a late fitness test. The return of Urko González from suspension provides a significant boost, as he is anticipated to play in midfield. Kike García, the team’s leading scorer with eight goals, will spearhead the attack.
Levante will not have Roger Brugué, Unai Elgezabal, Kareem Tunde, and Iván Romero available due to injuries or suspensions. Carlos Espí, who has been in good form with eight goals this season, is likely to start in the forward position.
Possible Lineups
Espanyol: Dmitrović; El Hilali, Riedel, Cabrera, Romero; González, Terrats; Ngonge, Expósito, Dolan; Kike García
Levante: Ryan; Toljan, Moreno, De la Fuente, Sánchez; V. García, Olasagasti, Raghouber, Martínez, Álvarez; Espí
Where to watch
| Country | Broadcast/Streaming |
| Spain | Movistar LaLiga |
| UK | LaLigaTV |
| USA | ESPN+ |
| Nigeria | SuperSport / LaLiga TV partners |
| Global | LaLiga official streaming platforms |
Barcelona reportedly extended their La Liga lead following a comfortable victory against Espanyol, which further intensifies the pressure on the Catalan side as their season continues to take a downward turn from early top-four ambitions.
(Photo Credit: Deportivo Alavés via X)
Alavés also improved their survival chances after coming back to defeat Espanyol 2–1, a result that underscored the growing vulnerabilities in Espanyol’s recent performances and their difficulty in maintaining leads or controlling matches during critical moments.
Softfootball assesses that both teams face significant pressure entering this match, where the focus has shifted from style of play to survival and momentum as the season heads towards its critical juncture.
