Last season-ending run showed that when Espanyol scores, they are a daunting team to play because of the defense led by Jarque and Pareja. Before the tragedy befalling Daniel Jarque, Espanyol looked like a team that could contend with the likes of Valencia, Sevilla, Atletico, Villarreal and Deportivo for a top six finish. But the season 2009/10 isn’t good for the hosts. They have scored only 22 goals, conceded 37 and are in 14th place on 34 points for eight wins and ten draws. The midfield will be the key of success on Sunday evening.

Los Colchoneros are the first team who defeated Barca in actual league season after they won 2-1 over FC Barcelona at Vicente Calderon five weeks ago. This win was very vital for the visitors. The game against Espanyol could serve as the perfect tonic for Atletico to definitely bounce back in style. If they win this match, they will get theirselves into a more comfortable situation. Atletico are going to be a very intense opponent today.
Stake on a draw