Real Madrid’s title hopes hinge on defeating a winless Espanyol team struggling in 2026. The match takes place on May 3, 2026, at the RCDE Stadium in Barcelona. Real Madrid currently sits second in La Liga, 11 points behind Barcelona.
Espanyol is in 13th place and has not won any matches this year. They have drawn six and lost ten of their 16 games in 2026. Their last match ended in a 0-0 draw against Levante. In contrast, Real Madrid has only one win in their last six competitive outings.
Kylian Mbappe will miss the match due to injury. This absence puts pressure on Vinicius Junior, who has scored four goals in six matches when Mbappe did not start. Real Madrid’s last match ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw against Real Betis, with the equalizer conceded in the 94th minute.
Key statistics:
- Real Madrid has won 25 of the last 30 matches against Espanyol.
- Espanyol has picked up just six points this year.
- Real Madrid is currently 11 points behind Barcelona.
Espanyol will likely be the more motivated side as they push for survival. A win for Real Madrid would put them firmly back in contention for the title. However, with their current form, they must respond quickly to avoid further disappointment.
The expected lineups include Dmitrovic, Romero, Cabrera for Espanyol and Lunin, Carreras, Huijsen for Real Madrid. Both teams face critical moments as the season approaches its climax.
