Espanyol, also known as RCD Espanyol, is not as widely recognized on the global soccer stage or have much sporting success. However, they are famous for their intense rivalry with their Catalan rivals, FC Barcelona, which is one of the most significant and historic rivalries in Spanish football. Matches between these two teams often feature intense rivalries and passionate fans. One notable instance occurred in the 2020–2021 season when Barcelona secured the La Liga title at Espanyol’s home ground. This rare occurrence added to the tension of the match, and it resulted in Espanyol fans invading the pitch to spoil the celebration of Barcelona.
They are currently playing in the second tier of the La Liga format, having been relegated last season. And now a gesture by the club has taken notice of the whole soccer community.
Espanyol walks out with 11 dogs
Usually, soccer clubs are at the forefront of many causes, often using matches to raise awareness about an issue. However, Espanyol has done something unique that no other Spanish side has done.
On Saturday, the Blanquiazules played against Real Valladolid as part of their Segunda Division league match. It took place at Espanyol’s home ground, RCDE Stadium, and they won comfortably with a score of 2-0. What caught the attention of many people, though, was what they did before the game.
🐶 ¡HISTÓRICO!
— RCD Espanyol de Barcelona (@RCDEspanyol) October 14, 2023
🫶🏻 Por primera vez en @LaLiga y @LaLiga2, nuestros jugadores saltan al campo con 11 perritos y perritas para encontrarles un hogar. ¡Un perico no abandona!#EspanyolRealValladolid #LALIGAHighlights pic.twitter.com/3Ck4aHkmXj
The club chose to bring in 11 dogs from a nearby Barcelona shelter which the 11 starting players walked down the tunnel and later took pictures with on the pitch in the traditional pre game photoshoot.
The aim was to bring in awareness to dog shelters in the city and to encourage people to adopt some of these animals. The gesture has received much praise from many in social media platforms. Many of the dogs were also disabled which also brought more attention to pet care.
Espanyol currently lead Segunda division
Espanyol may have been relegated last season, but they have no intention of staying in the Segunda division for long. The Barcelona club currently leads the league rankings at the top position with 23 points gained. They have played 11 games so far this season and have won 7 of them
Their nearest contenders, Leganes and Tenerife, have 22 points, so the title race is far from over. Part of their success is former Barcelona player Martin Braithwaite, who once again scored on Saturday. The Danish player has six goals in just nine games so far.
Espanyol have a chance to further widen the gap between Leganes when they face each other on Saturday.
