Barcelona vs Girona Preview:
Possible starting lineups:
Barcelona:Ter Stegen; Araujo, Kounde, Alonso, Alba; Roberto, Busquets, Gavi; Fati, Lewandowski, Raphinha
Girona:
Gazzaniga; A Martinez, Bueno, D Lopez, J Hernandez; Romeu, A Garcia, Martin; Tsygankov, Castellanos, Villa
Barcelona will try to return to the winning way when they host Girona on Monday night. The Catalans are currently top of the table, huge 11 points clear of second-placed Real Madrid. However, the atmosphere in the squad isn't on desired level after the heavy defeat from Real on Wednesday. Xavi's men had a 1:0 lead after the first leg match of Copa del Rey semi-final, but a 4:0 home defeat saw Los Blancos advancing to the final, where they will face Osasuna. Barcelona have also been knocked out of the Champions League and Europa League this season, so they need the title in La Liga to save the season. Barca are strong hosts as they have the best home record in the league this season, picking up 35 points from the possible 39. Xavi has some injury issues as Ousmane Dembele, Pedri, Andreas Christensen and Frenkie de Jong remain sidelined. Some changes are expected after poor display against Real, so Ansu Fati and Jordi Alba could potentially come into the starting eleven.
Girona are on the 11th place with 34 points. They are seven points away from the relegation zone and I think the fans are satisfied. Coach Michel is doing a solid job, but he must avoid any relaxation from his players in the finish of the season. The actual form is mixed, one win, one draw and one defeat on the last three matches in La Liga. Last week they managed to beat Espanyol with 2:1. The White and Reds collected three points thanks to a late penalty scored by Cristhian Stuani. Playing away from home isn't too successful, but Girona have recorded two victories on their travels this season. The good news is that key midfielder Aleix Garcia has returned to training this week and he is expected to be back in the team. However, six players will miss the match. Borja Garcia, Joel Roca, Alexander Callens, Yangel Herrera and Ibrahima Kebe are all struggling with injury, while Reinier is out suspended. Girona will probably be focused on defense, but Valentin Castellanos will try to upset Ter Stegen.
Barcelona vs Girona Prediction:
Barcelona are the best hosts in La Liga. As I already wrote above, they have picked up 35 points from the possible 39 at Camp Nou. Furthermore, they have scored 27 goals, while conceded just two. I don't see a chance for Girona. Barca should win the match. Considering their quality and motivation, I expect a high victory.
Barcelona vs Girona Pick: Barcelona -1.5 AH @ 1.89 with
Pinnacle