Girona and Athletic Bilbao are poised for an intense encounter in La Liga as they clash on Monday night, with Girona aiming to continue their remarkable campaign while Athletic seeks to challenge the top positions.
Match Preview:
Girona sits atop the La Liga table with a stellar performance, securing an outstanding 11 wins, one draw, and one defeat from 13 matches, accumulating 34 points.
Despite leading, they face competition from Real Madrid and Barcelona, closely trailing them in the standings.
Michel’s squad stands two points ahead of Real Madrid and four clear of Barcelona.
Their attacking prowess, with 31 goals scored, outshines their defensive record, having conceded 16 goals, the highest among the top four teams.
Remarkably, Girona, in only their fourth La Liga season, has showcased incredible form, surpassing their joint-best placing from the previous term.
Currently on a six-game winning streak, including their last five league victories, Girona aims to continue their dominance.
However, Athletic Bilbao, despite a less impressive numerical start with seven wins, three draws, and three losses totaling 24 points in 13 games, enters the match in strong form.
The Lions won their last three fixtures across all competitions, displaying solid performances in the Copa del Rey and La Liga encounters against Villarreal and Celta Vigo.
Positioned fifth, Athletic eyes a European spot this term after finishing eighth in the last two La Liga campaigns.
The history between the two sides favors Girona, having clinched victories in their previous encounters.
However, Athletic remains a formidable opponent and will look to challenge Girona’s dominance in this matchup.
La Liga Form: Girona: L W W W W W
Girona (All Competitions): W W W W W W
Athletic Bilbao: L W L D W W
Athletic Bilbao (All Competitions): W L D W W W
Team News:
Girona will miss Borja Garcia, Juan Carlos, Joel Roca, Ricard Artero, Toni Villa, and the talented Savio due to various injuries.
Portu is expected to replace Savio in the lineup, while Artem Dovbyk remains a key figure in their attack.
Athletic will be without Yeray Alvarez due to a muscular issue but otherwise boasts a fit squad.
Gorka Guruzeta’s impressive performance could see him leading the attack alongside Inaki Williams, Nico Williams, and Oihan Sancet.
Probable Starting Lineups:
Girona:(3-4-3)
Gazzaniga;
A Martinez, E Garcia, Blind;
Tsygankov, Martin, A Garcia, Gutierrez;
Herrera, Dovbyk, Portu
Athletic Bilbao:(4-2-3-1)
Simon;
De Marcos, Vivian, Paredes, Lekue;
Vesga, Ruiz de Galarreta;
I Williams, Sancet, N Williams;
Guruzeta
Predictions:
Girona’s remarkable run might see a halt against Athletic Bilbao, who possess quality to challenge the hosts.
Despite Girona’s current form, both sides are expected to share points in what could be a tightly contested 1-1 draw.
