Based on Espanyol’s play so far this season and the fact that derby matches are often tight affairs, many expected a decent match at Estadi Cornella-El Prat. Barcelona were certainly favorites and were expected to win, but Espanyol seemed like they had a good chance of avoiding a drubbing. If they ever had that chance, they did not take it.
Barcelona Derby, Barcelona Vs. Espanyol: 5-1 Full Time In A Classic Barca Rout
Espanyol had some decent counter attack chances and even converted one of them with Osvaldo scoring in the 63rd minute, but it was basically all Barca, all the time in the derby. Pedro scored 19 minutes in to give Barcelona the lead that they wouldn’t relinquish. Though Xavi only scored one of the five goals and Messi didn’t score at all, Barcelona’s two biggest stars shone the brightest. Xavi didn’t seem to misplace a pass all evening and Messi was the match’s biggest creative presence, setting up his teammates for opportunities over and over. Tomorrow, when the box scores are finalized, he will likely be credited with three assists. If so, it would take his league tally to a ridiculous 11.
Barcelona are now up by five points on Real Madrid, who play Sevilla tomorrow and obviously have one game in hand. Espanyol are waiting on many teams in their general vicinity to play before their end of week status will be known, but the furthest they can fall this week is to fifth place. However, Getafe, Atletico Madrid, Valencia, Real Sociedad, and Sevilla will all be hungry to gain ground on them and get closer to UEFA Champions League or UEFA Europa League qualification.
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