Match Report: CA Osasuna 1–2 RCD Espanyol de Barcelona – La Liga

RCD Espanyol de Barcelona snatched a dramatic 2‑1 comeback victory over CA Osasuna at El Sadar on 18 May 2026, overturning an early deficit to keep their European hopes alive. A second‑half double from Javi Puado turned the match on its head after Osasuna had taken a first‑half lead.

Match Overview

Osasuna started brightly and took the lead in the 14th minute when Ante Budimir rose highest to meet a corner from Aimar Oroz, powering his header past Joan García. The home side dominated the opening half‑hour, with Moi Gómez and Rubén Peña both testing the Espanyol goalkeeper. However, Espanyol grew into the contest as half‑time approached and began to create chances of their own.

The second half belonged to the visitors. Manager Luis García made a tactical switch, pushing Puado into a central role, and it paid dividends. Puado equalised in the 57th minute, latching onto a loose ball inside the box and firing low past Sergio Herrera. Then, with 15 minutes remaining, he struck again – a composed finish from a Martin Braithwaite cut‑back to complete the turnaround.

Key Moments

• 14' – Goal: Budimir’s powerful header gives Osasuna the lead.
• 34' – Missed chance: Osasuna’s Chimy Ávila shot wide from a good position.
• 57' – Goal: Puado equalises after a goalmouth scramble.
• 75' – Goal: Puado scores again with a clinical left‑footed finish.
• 89' – Red card: Osasuna’s David García sent off for a last‑man foul on Braithwaite.

Tactical Story

Osasuna’s early intensity came from a high press, but they faded as the game wore on. Espanyol’s shift to a more direct approach in the second half exposed space behind Osasuna’s full‑backs, with Puado exploiting the gaps. The sending‑off of David García in the closing stages sealed the result.

Standout Players

• Javi Puado (Espanyol): Two goals changed the complexion of the match; his movement and finishing were top‑class.
• Martin Braithwaite (Espanyol): Provided the assist for the winner and was a constant threat.
• Ante Budimir (Osasuna): Scored his 14th league goal of the season, but his side could not hold on.

Table Impact

Espanyol climbed to seventh place, level on points with sixth‑placed Athletic Bilbao and within striking distance of a Europa League spot. Osasuna remained 11th, their mid‑table security undermined by a disappointing collapse at home.

The win showcased Espanyol’s resilience and underlined Puado’s importance as they push for continental qualification. Osasuna, meanwhile, will rue their failure to kill the game off when on top.