This Sunday's La Liga match-up promises an engaging battle as Girona hosts Real Betis at the Estadi Municipal de Montilivi.
With both sides looking to bounce back from recent setbacks, this encounter is set to be a pivotal moment in their respective campaigns.
Current Form
Girona's Current Form
Girona finds themselves in a commendable third place in the La Liga standings, albeit a challenging 10 points adrift of leaders Real Madrid.
The Catalan club has experienced a dip in form, losing four of their last six league outings, including a recent 1-0 defeat at Getafe.
However, their home record speaks volumes, with an impressive tally of 35 points from 14 matches, underlining their fortress mentality at the Montilivi.
Real Betis' Current Form
On the other hand, Real Betis occupies the seventh spot, having endured a rough March with three consecutive losses.
These results have pushed them out of the top six, making their visit to Girona crucial for their aspirations of European football next season.
Team News
Girona Team News
Girona is grappling with several injury concerns, missing key players such as Miguel Gutierrez, Ricard Artero, Joel Roca, and Toni Villa.
Doubts also linger over the fitness of David Lopez, Borja Garcia, Viktor Tsyhankov, and Yangel Herrera.
Additionally, Savio faces suspension, posing a selection headache for coach Michel.
Real Betis Team News
Real Betis also faces its share of absenteeism, with Youssouf Sabaly, Marc Roca, and Marc Bartra sidelined through injury.
Uncertainties remain over the availability of Hector Bellerin and Cedric Bakambu. However, they welcome back Ezequiel Avila from suspension, offering a slight boost.
Key Players
Girona's Key Player
For Girona, the attacking prowess of Cristhian Stuani could be pivotal, especially in the absence of Savio.
Stuani's experience and goal-scoring ability might just tip the scales in Girona's favour.
Real Betis' Key Player
Real Betis will look towards Nabil Fekir for inspiration.
The Frenchman's creativity and skill could unlock Girona's defence and play a crucial role in Betis's pursuit of a positive result.
Scoreline Prediction
Considering Girona's formidable home record and Real Betis's struggles on the road, this match could well end in a tightly contested draw.
Both teams have the quality and motivation to secure a win, but injuries and recent form suggest a 1-1 draw could be on the cards.
FAQ
What time does the match start? The match is scheduled for 3.15 pm UK time on March 31, 2024.
Where is the match being played? Estadi Municipal de Montilivi, Girona's home ground.
What's at stake for both teams? Girona is aiming to solidify its Champions League qualification spot, while Real Betis seeks to re-enter the race for European football next season.
Have these teams met before? Yes, Real Betis and Girona have faced each other numerous times, with Betis winning five of their last six La Liga encounters against Girona.
Who is expected to miss the game due to injury? Both teams have several players sidelined due to injury, with key absences including Miguel Gutierrez for Girona and Marc Roca for Real Betis.