Girona will host Osasuna at the Estadi Municipal de Montilivi on Thursday as both teams look to make an impact in the early stages of the La Liga season.
Girona is eager to secure their first win of the campaign, while Osasuna aims to extend their unbeaten run. Here's a comprehensive look at the teams, recent form, injury updates, players to watch, and our prediction for the match.
Match Preview
Girona
Girona Recent Form
Girona has had a slow start to the new La Liga season. After finishing third in the 2023-24 season, they have struggled to replicate their form, securing only a point from their first two games.
They drew 1-1 against Real Betis in their season opener and suffered a 3-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid. Now back on home turf, Girona will hope to use their strong home record from last season, where they won 15 of 19 games, to get back on track.
Girona Injury News
Girona is dealing with several injury concerns. Ricard Artero and Jastin are sidelined with ankle and shoulder issues, respectively.
Valery is also doubtful after missing the first two matches due to illness. However, there is positive news as Yaser Asprilla, recently signed from Watford, could make his debut, though he might start from the bench.
Osasuna
Osasuna Recent Form
Osasuna has had a more encouraging start to their season compared to Girona. Under new manager Vicente Moreno, they remain unbeaten with a draw against Leganes and a victory over Mallorca.
Ruben Garcia’s goal secured a 1-0 win in their last outing, extending their unbeaten run to six league games dating back to last season.
They will be looking to build on this momentum as they seek their first away win over Girona since 2016.
Osasuna Injury News
Osasuna will be without key players Ruben Pena and Kike Barja due to muscle and knee injuries, respectively. Additionally, midfielder Iker Munoz is out after undergoing surgery on a foot injury. Manager Vicente Moreno may rotate his squad to freshen up the team, with Juan Cruz, Pablo Ibanez, and Moi Gomez as potential starters.
Players To Watch
Girona Player To Watch
Bojan Miovski: After making his debut off the bench in the defeat against Atletico Madrid, Miovski could be given his first start for Girona. The forward will be keen to make an impact and help Girona secure their first win of the season.
Osasuna Player To Watch
Ruben Garcia: Garcia was the match-winner in Osasuna's last game against Mallorca, and he will once again be crucial to their attacking efforts. His ability to score and create chances makes him a player to keep an eye on.
Prediction
Given Girona's strong home record last season and Osasuna's solid start to the campaign, this is set to be a closely contested match.
Girona will be desperate to bounce back in front of their home fans, while Osasuna will aim to continue their unbeaten run. The home advantage might give Girona the edge, but Osasuna's resilience under Moreno could see them snatch a point.