A late call on this game as I was waiting for Barcelona twitter to announce the squad for the Catalan derby. There are no surprises eventually and the “visitors” should miss only Dani Alves, if we compare the potential lineup with the XI used in the emphatic win against Atletico Madrid last weekend.

Barca’s performance in the 4-2 victory was hands down the best football showcased under Xavi, since the legend’s return to Spain. The team was cruising offensively and were also solid at the defensive end, easily defending the 2 goal lead even with a man down.

Barcelona’s been given a much needed confidence boost and the atmosphere around the team is now more positive than its’ ever been in 2021/22 campaign.

I am counting on Blaugrana to maintain their form and positive vibe from previous weeks and be able to add more points to their tally tonight.

Espanyol is currently far from their best and should not have enough about them to cause many problems to Barcelona. There is really only Raul De Tomas in their squad capable to make a difference and the team has lived to become too dependent of his individual form. RDT has 12 goals and 2 assists to his name in this campaign, which means he’s contributed to more than 50% of Espanyol’s goals in the current season.

On paper Barcelona’s task tonight seems clear as day - neutralize De Tomas and take advantage of Espanyol’s leaky defense, which has been giving away goals so easily in the past weeks. Even the likes of Cadiz found a way to score twice against the Catalan side.

Odds have been dropping for Barca’s win and I suggest you join the move.