Atletico de Madrid vs Espanyol preview - Garcia banks on Atletico fatigue

Posted Sunday, April 22, 2012 by PA

Espanyol forward Sergio Garcia is hoping Atletico Madrid will still be suffering from their midweek Europa League exertions when the two team meet at the Vicente Calderon on Sunday.

Atletico beat Valencia 4-2 on Thursday night in the opening leg of their semi-final to put themselves in the driving seat for a place in next month's European showpiece.

Espanyol had their own comfortable 4-0 victory over Valencia last weekend to keep themselves in the hunt for the European places, and Garcia is keen to build on that.

He told a press conference broadcast on the club's website: "(Atletico's) tiredness should take a little toll and with us at 100% we will try to take something positive from the game.

"It will be very important for our aspirations. In every way the table is very compressed and there will be equality until the last game.

"They are also playing for Europe, but we are mentally prepared."

Philippe Coutinho is expected to replace Vladimir Weiss in midfield for Espanyol as he returns from suspension, while defender Juan Forlin is also available after completing a one-game ban.

Radamel Falcao scored twice for Atleti in midweek to take his tally for his first season in Spain to 32.

The former Porto striker has now scored 27 goals in the last two seasons in the Europa League, and said he is delighted to show the fans what he is capable of after some were quick to criticise him earlier in the year.

The Colombian told AS: "All players have to pass challenges in every game.

"I try to develop, grow and give my all for the team and to have good performances so that the public can realise how much I am working for the team."

Despite the European return leg at Mestalla being only four days away, Atletico coach Diego Simeone is not expected to make many changes against Espanyol as he continues to chase Champions League football for next season.

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