Espanyol vs Sporting Gijon Prediction & Betting Tips - LaLiga 2

Prediction published on 13/06/2024, 07:00  by Sridhar in Football Predictions

Only one goal separates Espanyol and Sporting Gijon as the teams battle for a spot in the final of the Spanish Segunda Division promotion play-offs. This is the second leg of the promotion play-off semi-final and will be played at the Stage Front Stadium on Thursday. The winner of this tie will face the winner of the other semi-final between Eibar and Oviedo. Espanyol left it late in the first leg, needing an 88th-minute goal from Javi Puado to tilt the scales in its favour. There was more drama in the offing, as Sergi Gomez received a late red card, but that didn’t affect the result. The hosts would want to avoid defeat here and progress further, something they have done in 17 straight matches in the league. Even at this venue, Espanyol have been unbeaten in ten straight league games, winning six and drawing four.

Gijon would feel undone by the result in the first leg and would have to break Espanyol’s impressive home record to make it to the final. The first leg result was the third consecutive game involving Gijon, which ended 1-0, although the other two saw them end up winning. They won’t feel daunted by this trip, though, as Gijon managed to avoid defeat in the two league games against Espanyol this season. That included a 0-0 draw at this venue, but otherwise, their recent away form has been poor. Gijon have lost six of their last nine away league games, winning two and drawing once. Yet, both those wins have come in their last five away trips and should give them confidence in pinching a win.