The first weekend of 2026 delivers a mouth-watering Catalan Derby as Espanyol hosts league-leaders FC Barcelona today, Saturday, January 3, 2026. This isn't just a battle for city bragging rights; it's a high-stakes clash between two of La Liga's most in-form sides.
Barcelona enters the new year four points clear at the summit, while a resurgent Espanyol sits in a surprising 5th place, threatening the Champions League spots in what has been their best season in nearly two decades.
Match Details: Kick-off & How to Watch
Competition: La Liga (Matchday 18)
Date: Saturday, January 3, 2026
Kick-off: 20:00 GMT / 21:00 CET / 23:00 EAT
Venue: RCDE Stadium (Stage Front Stadium), Barcelona
Referee: Víctor García Verdura (VAR: Carlos del Cerro Grande)
TV/Live Stream: ESPN+ (US), Viaplay Sports (UK), LaLiga TV
Team Form: The Leaders vs. The Surprise Package
FC Barcelona: Hansi Flick’s Winning Machine
Barcelona has been almost unstoppable, ending 2025 with eight consecutive league victories. Hansi Flick has transformed the Blaugrana into a clinical offensive unit, scoring 51 goals in 18 games—the highest in the division. Following a 2–0 win over Villarreal just before the break, Barca looks to provisionally open a seven-point gap over Real Madrid, who don't play until Sunday.
Espanyol: The Five-Game Win Streak
The "Parakeets" are flying high. Under Manolo González, Espanyol has won five straight matches against the likes of Athletic Club and Sevilla. They have made the RCDE Stadium a difficult place to visit, conceding very few goals and relying on the heroics of goalkeeper Marko Dmitrović. Currently in 5th place, they are just two points behind 4th-placed Atlético Madrid.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Barcelona Team News
Hansi Flick received a major New Year's boost as several key stars returned to full fitness just in time for the derby.
Returnees: Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo have both been declared fit. Pedri is also expected to start after missing the Villarreal game.
Out: Gavi and Andreas Christensen remain long-term absentees (both knee).
Return of the Captain: Ronald Araujo has returned to the squad following a brief "mental health break" and could feature in the heart of defense.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): J. Garcia; Kounde, Cubarsi, E. Garcia, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha; Lewandowski.
Espanyol Team News
The hosts are missing a few pieces but remain largely at full strength for the clash.
Out (AFCON): Midfielder Charles Pickel is away on international duty with DR Congo.
Injury: Roman Terrats is sidelined with a hamstring issue.
Doubtful: Star forward Javi Puado is a late fitness test (knee); he may start on the bench.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Dmitrovic; El Hilali, Calero, Cabrera, Romero; Gonzalez, Lozano; Dolan, Edu Exposito, Pere Milla; Roberto Fernandez.
Head-to-Head (H2H) & Key Stats
The Derby Drought: Espanyol has not beaten Barcelona at home in La Liga since January 2007.
One-Sided History: Barcelona is unbeaten in their last 28 La Liga encounters with Espanyol (W21, D7).
Late Drama: Only Barcelona (6) has scored more home league goals after the 80th minute than Espanyol (4) this season.
Clean Sheets: Barcelona has kept clean sheets in their last three La Liga matches.
Tactical Analysis: High Line vs. Counter-Punch
The tactical battle will be a classic contrast of styles. Flick’s Barcelona will employ a high defensive line and look to suffocate Espanyol with possession (averaging 68% this season).
Espanyol, however, thrives on discipline and transition. They have the lowest average possession in the league but are incredibly efficient. Expect them to sit deep, absorb pressure, and use the pace of Tyrhys Dolan and Pere Milla to exploit the space behind Barca’s advanced full-backs.
Match Prediction
While Espanyol is in their best form in years, the quality of a fully-fit Barcelona attack—led by the returning Lamine Yamal—is a daunting prospect. The atmosphere will be hostile, but Barca’s experience in the Derbi Barceloní usually shines through.
Final Score Prediction: Espanyol 1–2 Barcelona
