On Monday, March 10, 2025, RCD Espanyol will host Girona FC in a pivotal LaLiga match at the RCDE Stadium. The match is set to kick off at 21:00 CET and promises to be a hotly contested encounter as both teams battle for survival.
Espanyol, currently sitting at 15th place with 27 points, is eager to build on their recent momentum. The team demonstrated resilience with their latest 1-0 victory over Alavés, showcasing Fernando Calero's late goal as the winning strike. Manolo González, Espanyol's coach, emphasized the need to maintain their defensive strength at home, saying, "We must not depend on others to save ourselves." The team is determined to use the home advantage to climb out of the relegation zone, having only one defeat this year, which came against Real Sociedad.
Interestingly, the history between these teams at the RCDE Stadium has not been favorable for Espanyol. They have never managed to overcome Girona on their home ground, suffering three defeats and recording one draw across four encounters. This fact adds fuel to the fire as the players aim to break this streak and secure the much-needed points.
On the flip side, Girona arrives at the match under troubling circumstances, currently positioned 13th with 32 points. Their recent form shows signs of struggle; they have only managed to win three out of the last 17 matches, which includes three consecutive defeats prior to their 2-2 draw against Celta de Vigo. Míchel, the Girona coach, acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, "To win, we must play very well and be at our best. It will be a difficult match against a rival who is on great form." Despite their downturn, Girona remains within reach of European placements, as they sit only four points behind Rayo Vallecano and Mallorca.
A key factor for Girona could be the expected debut of Arthur Melo, whose performance is viewed as pivotal for revitalizing their midfield and playing style. His recent minutes played should serve as encouragement for the team as they attempt to regain competitive form.
Both teams will face challenges with injuries affecting their lineups. Espanyol will be without notable players including Fernando Pacheco, José Gragera, and Pablo Ramón. Similarly, Girona's attack will miss Abel Ruiz, leaving them with work to do as they look to strengthen their squad.
The match's referee, Cordero Vega, has the task of managing what is anticipated to be an intensely competitive fixture. With everything on the line for both the teams, this derby promises not just points but also potential shifts in momentum heading toward the final stretch of the LaLiga season.
Heavily reliant on their home crowd, Espanyol's recent record of not losing at home since October against Sevilla will be sorely tested. The rare opportunity presents itself for the Pericos to quell their historical struggles against Girona and boost their standings.
Fans are expected to fill the stadium to support their teams, knowing well the stakes involved. With both clubs positioning themselves for survival and aspirations of European football simmering beneath the surface, this match is not to be missed.