Getafe vs. Espanyol

Getafe vs. Espanyol / La Liga – We can say for this match that is much more important for the hosts, because Getafe is very close to the relegation zone and have only four points more than teams in the zone, while Espanyol is eighth and has six points more than Getafe but on the other hand is very far from European position. Both teams came a long way in the Cup; Getafe was eliminated in the quarter-finals, while Espanyol is in the semi-finals. Both teams played away in the last round and Getafe lost, while Espanyol won. Espanyol won their match played in the first part of the season by 2-0 and it is interesting that Espanyol didn’t lost last eight away matches against Getafe. Begins: 20.02.2015 – 20:45 CET

Getafe
Although their position in the standings is bad, it can be that Getafe even plays well lately. They had a tough schedule but they nevertheless managed to win several points against stronger teams. First of all it applies to the victory at home over Sevilla two rounds ago and over Celta in late January. Their last four losses were by the minimal result of 1-0, two in the Cup to Villarreal, and two in the championship in away matches to Almeria and Valencia.

They are going to be sorry about the last match against Valencia for a long time, because they successfully resisted to the favoured hosts till unjustified penalty, but despite that misfortune they had a great chance to equalise in the finish of the match. They, however, didn’t and now want to play a good match, however, they have paid dearly for being combative in Valencia as even two standard starters have gotten the fifth yellow card and now cannot play. These are Escudero and Diego Castro and they will not play, as well as injured Roberto Lago. From before Lafita and Baba are out of action, while goalkeeper Guaita is still recovering.

Probable lineups Getafe: Jonathan – Alexis, Naldo, Velazquez, Vigaray – J. Rodriguez, Lacen – Sarabia, Pedro Leon, Alvaro Vazquez – Sammir

Espanyol
Espanyol is obviously completely relaxed when it playing matches in La Liga, largely thanks to very comfortable position in the standings since they are far and away from the relegation zone and also from the European positions. Additionally, they raised their self-confidence when they qualified for the semi-finals of the Cup on top of which came an excellent draw with Athletic 1-1 in the first leg of the semi-finals so the door of the final is wide open. It was expected that after that draw will eased a bit in the championship, however, it happened quite the opposite and they routinely defeated Malaga in the away match by 2-0.

The team was naturally changed a bit compared to the Cup match but now it is a common practice as they play a large number of matches and must preserve their strength. Now, new changes are inevitable but they are forced to make some of them. Large number of disciplinary cards was shown to Espanyol players in Malaga, even red one, because of which stopper Colotto is suspended now. Midfielder Victor Sanchez and captain Sergio Garcia received the fifth yellow card so they will miss this away match. The good news is that midfielder Canas has recovered and he returns in the team which will surely see more changes.

Probable lineups Espanyol: Casilla – J.Lopez, A.Gonzalez, Moreno, Fuentes – Canas, Abraham – Montanes, S. Sevilla, Vazquez – Stuani

Getafe – Espanyol PICK
We have already said that this match is much more important for the hosts, who at home knows and can play a very good match, which they proved with several victory over stronger opponents or at least draws. They can do that and against traditionally unpleasant Espanyol, who is significantly weakened and is now more focused on the Cup.

Pick: Asian handicap 0 Getafe

Stake: 5/10

Odds: 1.73