Prediction: Barcelona vs Girona

Verdict: Home win

Best odds: 13/25

Bookmaker: Unibet

The upcoming match between Barcelona and Girona on Sunday promises to be a significant encounter in La Liga.

Girona has indeed emerged as an significant surprise in the Spanish top flight this season, amassing an impressive 38 points from 15 matches, placing them second in the standings alongside Real Madrid. Barcelona, currently occupying the third position, trails Girona by four points, and that makes the match likely to prove an intriguing battle between the Catalan rivals at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Barcelona

Barcelona’s recent victory against Atletico Madrid was pivotal in maintaining their challenge in La Liga, securing a 1-0 win with Joao Felix, on loan from Atletico, scoring the only goal in the first half. With 10 wins, four draws, and one defeat in 15 league games, Barcelona currently stand in third place with 34 points, trailing Girona and Real Madrid by four points each, setting the stage for an important clash against Girona.

While Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona’s head coach, faced criticism earlier in the season, the team’s progression to the Champions League knockout rounds has somewhat alleviated pressure. However, their upcoming matches against Girona, Valencia, and Almeria hold significant weight, especially considering the need to close the gap on the top two teams in the league before the winter break.

Barcelona has had the upper hand historically against Girona, remaining unbeaten in their last seven encounters, securing five wins in the process. However, recent meetings have shown Girona’s increasing ability to compete, notably with a goalless draw at Camp Nou last season and a 2-2 draw at Barcelona’s home ground during the 2018/19 campaign.

Team News

Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s absence due to a back problem implies Inaki Pena will continue as the goalkeeper. Additionally, injuries to Gavi and Inigo Martinez will sideline them, while Marcos Alonso might be fit enough to feature.

In the attacking segment, Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and Felix are expected to lead the line despite competition from Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres. The team’s depth will be tested, with Alejandro Balde likely to find a spot on the bench.

Girona

Girona’s exceptional form this La Liga season has been a standout story, marked by their impressive record of 12 wins, 2 draws, and 1 defeat in their 15 league matches, accumulating 38 points. Their second position in the league standings, behind only Real Madrid and that on mere goal-difference, is a testament to their surprising consistency.

Girona’s attacking prowess is noteworthy, leading the league with 34 goals scored. However, their defensive record, conceding 18 goals (joint-most among the top eight), highlights an area for improvement.

After a recent draw against Athletic Bilbao and a convincing win over Valencia, Girona’s confidence remains high. Their midweek Copa del Rey victory against Orihuela demonstrates their depth and ability to compete in multiple competitions.

Upcoming fixtures against Alaves and Real Betis will further challenge Girona’s mettle before the winter break, offering an opportunity to strengthen their position in the league.

Considering the relatively limited La Liga experience for Michel’s team, their outstanding performance this season really stands out. With previous best finishes of 10th in both the last and the 2017/18 campaigns, their current second-place position signifies a remarkable improvement and potential for a historic campaign.

Team News

Yangel Herrera, Joel Roca, and Toni Villa are confirmed to miss this game due to injuries, while Borja Garcia and Ricard Artero are doubtful due to fitness concerns.

Interestingly, Eric Garcia, despite being on loan from Barcelona, is eligible to play against his parent club, much as Joao Felix played for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid. The defender is likely to retain his place in the heart of Girona’s defence. Additionally, Yan Couto is expected to step into the midfield in place of the injured Herrera.

For their starting lineup, Michel is expected to make several changes from the Copa del Rey match. Savio, Miguel Gutierrez, and Artem Dovbyk are among the players set to return. Dovbyk, in particular, will be seeking to build on his impressive campaign, having already scored seven goals in the league this season.

Conclusion

As has been said, this game has the prospect of a proper contest between two high-quality side, though it feels more likely for the defending champions to wind their way to a difficult and important victory. And with both teams playing an attacking brand of football, particularly Girona, it shouldn’t be shy of goals.

Verdict: Home win

Best odds: 13/25

Bookmaker: Unibet