The Daily Star Ireland
Girona, who faced a challenging start to the season due to significant player departures and a lengthy injury list, has recently begun to find its rhythm. The team secured three straight league victories, including a dramatic 4-3 win over Leganés, a 0-1 triumph at Getafe before the international break, and a dominant 4-1 victory against newly-promoted Espanyol Barcelona, with all four goals coming in the first half.
Their winning streak came to an end with a 2-2 draw against Villarreal, leaving Girona in 7th place, just outside the European qualification spots. Unfortunately, their Champions League campaign has been disappointing, with defeats to PSV (4-0) and Sturm Graz (1-0), putting them in 30th place and with minimal hope of advancing.
In contrast, Liverpool has been one of Europe’s top teams this season, despite the departure of Jürgen Klopp in the summer. They are currently leading the Premier League, 8 points ahead of second-place Arsenal, following a 2-0 victory over struggling Manchester City. Their only loss came in mid-September to Nottingham Forest (0-1), but since then, they have posted 11 wins and 1 draw. In the Champions League, Liverpool has been flawless, winning all five of their group-stage matches, including a 2-0 win over Real Madrid.
While Girona’s injury situation has improved, several key players remain unavailable, such as Venezuelan midfielder Yangel Herrera, long-term absentee Jastin, and 19-year-old Gabriel Misehouy. Ukrainian international Tsygankov and Asprilla have also suffered setbacks.
On a positive note, winger Bryan Gil has been in superb form, contributing 2 goals and 3 assists, and striker Miovski stood out with a brace against Espanyol. Van de Beek has been active in both La Liga and the Champions League, while veteran Stuani remains effective with 4 goals and 1 assist. For Liverpool, the injury list is growing, with Bradley, Konaté, Tsimikas, Jota, Alisson, and Chiesa all sidelined.
Nevertheless, Alisson and Chiesa are nearing returns, and during Alisson’s absence, Kelleher stepped in, strengthening a solid defense led by Van Dijk. Alexander-Arnold, back from injury, has reaffirmed his elite status as a full-back. Gravenberch has been a standout in midfield, and Salah continues to impress with 13 goals and 11 assists, making a strong case for MVP. Nunez, Gakpo, and Diaz add further firepower to Liverpool’s attack.
Prediction
Liverpool has been dominant in away Champions League games, with 19 consecutive matches featuring over 2.5 goals, including a loss in this fixture last season. Girona, on the other hand, has only had one goalless draw in their last 20 league matches, so it’s expected that goals will be scored in this game.
Prediction: Girona 1 – 2 Liverpool
