This Catalan derby promises to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent years. League leaders FC Barcelona arrive with an eight-match winning streak, while their city rivals, RCD Espanyol, are riding high on a five-match winning run, their best in the league's history, signaling a shift in power. This clash transcends mere points, carrying special significance. RCD Espanyol: 'The Parrots' Awakening RCD Espanyol's performance this season has been remarkable. Currently fifth in the league, under coach Manuel González, they are challenging for a European spot. Their attack and defence are balanced, and morale is high. Despite the absence of key midfielder Charles Piquerez due to the Africa Cup of Nations, players like Ramón Terrats and Javi Puado have returned from injury. However, they haven't beaten FC Barcelona in 13 derbies, with their last league victory dating back to 2009. FC Barcelona: The Unstoppable 'Dream Team' Mode FC Barcelona are dominating La Liga. Hansi Flick's team has won eight league games in a row, keeping a clean sheet in the last three, demonstrating exceptional balance in attack and defence. They boast the league's strongest attack (51 goals in 18 games), with in-form players like Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal. Despite injuries to Gavi and Andreas Christensen, and the questionable availability of Dani Olmo, FC Barcelona has the squad depth to cope. Their aim is clear: win the derby to gain a seven-point lead before the Super Cup and consolidate their title position. Derby Intensity: Tactics and Battle RCD Espanyol will leverage home support, employing a compact formation and aggressive pressing to disrupt FC Barcelona's passing game. FC Barcelona will, as usual, control possession, patiently seeking opportunities to score. Historical data shows FC Barcelona has scored nine goals in their last three encounters, while RCD Espanyol has failed to keep a clean sheet in ten derbies. Conclusion and Score Prediction While RCD Espanyol is in good form and motivated, FC Barcelona's consistency, dominance, and championship mentality are on another level. Derbies can have unexpected results, but FC Barcelona's current form and psychological advantage make a loss unlikely. RCD Espanyol might cause problems, but it's hard to see them stopping FC Barcelona. Prediction: RCD Espanyol 1-3 FC Barcelona