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Osasuna are in excellent form, having suffered just one defeat in their last eight matches. Thursday’s 2–0 victory over Atlético Madrid highlighted the strength and determination of Vicente Moreno’s side. Thanks to that win, Los Rojillos are now level on points with Rayo Vallecano (8th place), trailing them only on goal difference.

The team from Navarre have a realistic chance of qualifying for the UEFA Europa Conference League, and a win in the upcoming match could even lift them into 7th place, depending on other results.

Espanyol, meanwhile, are in the middle of a serious crisis. Four consecutive defeats, including a 0–2 derby loss to Barcelona, have dragged Manolo González’s side into danger. The Catalan club hold only a five-point cushion over 18th-placed Leganés, who still have a chance to overtake them.

Away from home, Espanyol have struggled badly — they have lost their last two away matches, including a 2–3 defeat to Leganés. While three points would secure their La Liga status, their margin for error is minimal.

Team News

Osasuna

• Possible absence of left-back Juan Cruz due to injury; Abel Bretones is expected to replace him

• In attack, Ante Budimir is the key figure after scoring against Atlético

• He will be supported by Rubén Peña and Bryan Zaragoza, on loan from Bayern Munich

• Creative midfielder Aimar Oroz is set to play just behind the striker

Espanyol

• Leandro Cabrera is suspended following his red card against Barcelona, weakening the centre of defence

• Fernando Calero is expected to step in as his replacement

• Brian Oliván may return from injury, though most likely from the bench

• The attacking trio of Roberto Fernández, Javi Puado and Antoniu Roca will carry the responsibility in the fight for survival

Match Outlook

Osasuna arrive full of confidence and with clear motivation to push for European qualification. Espanyol, by contrast, are under heavy pressure, struggling for form and dealing with defensive absences.

This match looks set to pit a team playing with passion and ambition (Osasuna) against a side whose morale is being severely tested (Espanyol). If the hosts maintain their current level, they should be well placed to take maximum points and move closer to Europe. Espanyol, on the other hand, may need a miracle — or a slip from Leganés — if they fail to pick up points in Pamplona.

OUR PICK: Osasuna – Double Chance (Win or Draw)