As the 2025/26 La Liga season winds down, Osasuna welcomes Espanyol to El Sadar for a mid-table scrap that might just decide their final spots. Both sides are locked on 42 points, but Osasuna's better goal difference gives them a slight edge in the standings. And that's no small thing with only one matchday left after this.
Osasuna's recent run has been a rollercoaster, mixing frustration with the odd bright spot. They've lost four of their last five, including defeats to heavyweights like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. That 2-1 win over Sevilla back in late April feels like a distant memory now. But don't count them out; they're at home, where they've shown they can compete.
Espanyol, meanwhile, picked up a much-needed 2-0 victory against Athletic Bilbao just days ago, snapping a string of losses and a draw. Still, their form's been patchy, with four games without a win before that. It's clear they're struggling to find consistency, especially after falling to Real Madrid and Sevilla.
Head-to-head, Espanyol holds a card from earlier this season, edging a 1-0 win back in August. That might boost their confidence, but it's the only encounter so far, so it doesn't tell the full story. Injuries are hitting both teams hard. Osasuna will miss forward Víctor Muñoz and goalkeeper Sergio Herrera, which could disrupt their attack and defense. Over at Espanyol, Javi Puado's out for the season with a cruciate injury, and they've got Cyril Ngonge and Carlos Romero sidelined too. That's a blow to their forward line.
Key figures could steal the show here. Osasuna's Ante Budimir leads the charge with 17 goals, making him a real threat up front, while Rubén García's dished out five assists to keep things ticking. For Espanyol, Roberto Fernández Jaén has chipped in with around six goals, though they'll feel Puado's absence keenly.
With both teams evenly matched on points, I expect Osasuna to nudge ahead. They've got home advantage and a stronger goal difference, plus their predicted lineup looks solid with Dmitrovic in goal. Espanyol won't roll over, but their defensive woes might cost them.
And if you're eyeing the betting markets, this one's shaping up with value. Osasuna should edge it given their form and the stakes.
Recommended Bets
Bet 1 @2.50 — Osasuna to win; they're at home with better recent resilience and a superior goal difference.
Bet 2 @1.80 — Under 2.5 goals; both teams' matches have been low-scoring lately, pointing to a tight game.
Bet 3 @3.00 — Ante Budimir to score anytime; as Osasuna's top scorer with 17 goals, he's due to make an impact.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
