A goal by young centre-back Jacobo Ramon, after a pass from Jesus Vallejo – also a centre-back – in the fifth minute of stoppage time helped Real Madrid come from behind to beat Mallorca 2-1 and La Liga remains undecided.

The power of self-determination remains in Barcelona's hands, though, and Hansi Flick's side look to seal the Catalan derby against hosts Espanyol.

At Cornella Stadium, a victory will help Barca officially win their 28th La Liga title.

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Barca has a chance to be crowned early. Photo: FCB

“I think it is not a good idea to talk or think about celebrating before the match,” Hansi Flick said at a press conference. “We have to focus on the game.”

Flick's aim is technical: “We have to fight for the three points, then we will do the right thing.”

Espanyol are still uncertain about staying in La Liga after a series of 3 consecutive defeats. Therefore, coach Manolo Gonzalez's students will play with great determination.

Furthermore, derbies are always fierce. Espanyol and the Cornella stands will create a tense atmosphere with the aim of preventing their neighboring rivals from being crowned champions two rounds early.

On Wednesday, Barca received bad news about Ferran Torres, who was rushed to hospital to undergo surgery for appendicitis.

Ferran Torres is currently being monitored by Barca's medical team. An unforeseen health issue has forced an important Flick player to end his season early.

Ferran Torres will miss the rest of the season as he continues his recovery from surgery. He is also unlikely to travel with Spain to Germany for the UEFA Nations League semi-final against France on June 5.

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Yamal is the key to the derby. Photo: Diario AS

However, Flick welcomed Lewandowski back into the attack. The Polish striker is aiming for his 100th career goal for the Blaugrana, as well as competing with Kylian Mbappe for the Pichichi.

It is impossible not to mention the role of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, the "angel wings" in the tactical system that Flick built this season.

Yamal and Raphinha will be the keys to opening the door to goalkeeper Joan Garcia - the target that Barca wants to buy to inherit Ter Stegen in the future.

Force:

Espanyol: Brian Olivan is injured.

Barca: Kounde, Ferran Torres injured; Inigo Martinez suspended.

Expected lineup:

Espanyol (4-2-3-1): Joan Garcia; Omar, Cabrera, Kumbulla, Romero; Kral, Urko; Roca, Edu Exposito, Puado; Roberto.

Barca (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Christensen, Balde; De Jong, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha; Lewandowski.

Match odds: Barca handicap 1 1/2

Goal Odds: 3 1/4

Prediction: Barca win 3-1 .

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/nhan-dinh-bong-da-barca-vs-espanyol-vong-36-la-liga-2401229.html