Overview
- Kickoff is set for 21:00 CET at RCDE Stadium, with coverage in Spain on Movistar’s LaLiga channels, Sky Sports in Mexico, ESPN platforms in the United States, and DIRECTV/DSports across much of Latin America.
- Espanyol has installed protective nets behind both goals and authorities plan a strong policing presence given recent tensions and the club’s disciplinary history.
- Barcelona lead LaLiga and Espanyol sit in the top five, adding table significance to a rivalry already under intense local scrutiny.
- Lamine Yamal trained normally after a brief indisposition and is available, while Barcelona continue without long-term absentees such as Gavi and Andreas Christensen.
- Extra attention centers on goalkeeper Joan García’s return to Cornellà to face his former club, a storyline that has further charged the atmosphere.