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Match Report: 3-1 defeat in Barcelona derby

Espanyol lose out to FC Barcelona on Matchday 12

Espanyol returned to their former home, the Estadi Olimpic Lluís Companys, to face current incumbents FC Barcelona in the derby on Matchday 12. The game ended in a 3-1 defeat for Los Pericos, with Javi Puado getting the consolation goal in the second half.

In the first period, FC Barcelona took the initiative early, with Joan García's goal under attack on a couple of occasions. The home team went ahead thanks to a goal from Dani Olmo, despite García getting a touch on his shot from inside the box.

Shortly after, Raphinha extended the advantage for Barça, taking the score to 2-0. RCD Espanyol had a pair of decisions go against them, as the referee did not give a possible penalty in Jofre Carreras' favour, then disallowed a goal for him for an offside by assist-provider El-Hillali.

A third goal came when Olmo scored from outside the box, extending the lead for FC Barcelona.

Espanyol reacted positively after the break and managed to find space amongst the home defence. They had the ball in the net again, thanks to Tejero, but once more the goal was ruled out for offside.

On the next move, it was Puado who could have reduced the deficit, but after pulling over on the run, his strike was met by Iñaki Peña to save.

Finally, Puado managed to score after finishing a pass from Romero from an acute angle, making things a little more nervy for the LaLiga leaders.

There was still time for a possible penalty for handball by Cubarsí to be ignored, and the referee ruled out a goal by Puado after considering that the ball had gone out before it was crossed to him.

RCD Espanyol's next game is at home, next Saturday against Valencia CF.