Real Madrid vs Espanyol: A clash between two in form sides LaLiga Santander - Real Madrid vs Espanyol Both like to play entertaining football

With the Bernabeu still purring after Real Madrid's fine start in the Champions League, there is another test for Los Blancos against Espanyol who have begun the season well.

Both sides are set to play a 4-3-3 formation and Julen Lopetegui is well aware of the threat from Espanyol.

"They are the toughest opponents that we have faced at home so far this season," said the coach.

Along with the likely change in goalkeeper with Courtois set to step back in, there are also set to be changes in all the lines of the team. Odriozola is to come in for Carvajal, Ceballos is ready for his chance in midfield and Mariano could play in attack.

Kroos may be rested having not been given a break so far this season and Benzema could also make way going forward, with Asensio set to play having missed the Champions League clash, as well as an opening for Mariano.

Espanyol go into the clash with optimism as they lie fourth in the table on seven points. New coach Rubi has revitalised the side through possession football, where the side like to get forward but perhaps his biggest impact has been psychologially and restored belief.

Rubi has worked hard on buillding confidence and they want to continue their good record against top sides having beaten Real and Atletico Madrid last season in LaLiga along with Barcelona in the cup.

The loss of David Lopez is a blow for Espanyol with the player struggling with a thigh strain and Oscar Duarte may come into the defence.

It means that Rubi will not be able to repeat the same lineup as he has done for the past three matches. It is not a game that the coach wants to change much even though the matches are starting to come thick and fast.