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2-1 loss in final preseason friendly

RCD Espanyol suffer a turnaround against FC Heindenheim 1846

RCD Espanyol ended their preseason in Germany with a 2-1 defeat at the hands of FC Heindenheim 1846. The home team, who will participate in the Conference League this season if they get through the playoff, are facing their second season in the Bundesliga this coming campaign.

In the contest, Manolo González used the friendly to get his team ready for their 2024/25 return to LaLiga. None of the three new signings started the game, with Cardona out of the squad having only been announced on Saturday.

Los Pericos were barely troubled in the first half. RCD Espanyol goalkeeper Fortuño only had to intervene on one occasion, denying a long-range shot, whilst they had a hard time getting into the opposition area.

The clearest chance in the early spell was for Javi Puado after a Pere Milla recovery, which he could not finish off.

An injury to Fernando Calero meant he was unable to continue, replaced by Sergi Gómez.

RCD Espanyol remained organised and began to open up the game. The result of this improvement was a goal from Javi Puado, who took advantage of a sensational service from Carlos Romero from the left.

The captain had a chance at a second goal after a corner kick headed by Cabrera, then a great individual move by Álvaro Aguado.

However, the home side equalised with an own goal by Sergi Gómez, as he attempted a clearance away from inside the box.

After the restart, Král and Veliz made their debuts, getting 45 minutes each in their first appearances. As a result of the pressure, another clear opportunity came for Rafa Bauza, who could not convert it.

The home side again took advantage of a defensive lapse to score their second goal, taking the lead and holding out for the win.