Odds via Tonybet

Barcelona vs GironaDecember 10 2023, 3:00 PM EDT
Barcelona odds-188
Girona odds+459
Draw+380
Over\Under3 -129/-110

With Michel, nothing is impossible for Girona. The team has proven itself as a major force this season, and only a few weeks ago Real Madrid managed to force Girona back to second place. And there’s a big match ahead: Barcelona vs Girona.

Remarkably, without significant expenditure, Girona has captured the admiration of fans by playing a brand of ‘street football.’

They have not only maintained but also improved their performance compared to last season, when they achieved promotion, defying expectations.

A Catalan Derby in the Spanish top-flight is extremely rare, but watching both teams has never been more fun. Neither team is particularly adept at defence, which sets the stage for a high-scoring game.

More crucially, both teams adhere to their distinct styles of play, regardless of the current score, ensuring a match rich in characteristic football. 

Additionally, the two teams embody very different football styles.

Girona’s approach is often perceived as somewhat chaotic yet irresistibly effective. In contrast, Barcelona’s style is theoretically more organized but frequently devolves into an unusual blend of individual brilliance and excessive directness on the pitch.

When Barcelona’s strategy falters, they tend to fall back on aimless possession. And in more challenging scenarios, even their control of the ball diminishes. One notable casualty of Barcelona’s spate of injuries is Gavi.

His absence in this match is a loss for both teams, as his energetic presence on the field often guarantees a spectacular display.

But it also means the homecoming of Romeu, and Barcelona loanee Pablo Torre is still yet to start for Girona. Another loanee, Eric García, has imposed himself as a starter in Michel’s team despite all his flaws. If anything, this clash promises a lot.

Unexpectedly, Barcelona was suddenly under pressure. The Catalans suffered a 2-1 loss against Real Madrid. While the 1-0 defeat against Shakhtar Donetsk in Hamburg forced Barcelona to win against Porto and Atlético de Madrid. 

Xavi, in his own way, has succeeded in instilling his philosophy in the team.

This was evident in Barcelona’s unconvincing yet successful match against Porto, securing their spot in the Champions League Last 16, and in their masterful 1-0 victory over Atlético de Madrid. 

The scoreline was somewhat flattering for Simeone’s squad, who faced significant pressure and conceded major chances from the early minutes. The game against Girona is a major test: can they excel outside their comfort zone?

The recent match in Montjuic against Atlético, which saw only 33,000 fans in a stadium capable of accommodating about 50,000, sparked concerns over high ticket prices (often exceeding 200 euros) and the club’s ongoing appeal. Whether that will repeat itself on Sunday remains to be seen.  

Barcelona vs Girona Main Match Info

Barcelona vs Girona, Prediction, Odds

Despite the betting odds heavily favouring Barcelona, the match is anticipated to be tightly contested. Barcelona is easily thrown off when conceding the first goal, and that’s precisely Girona’s Savoir-faire.

Girona’s proficiency in wing play remains a challenge for many teams to counter. Their full-backs, Savio and Miguel Gutierrez are not only the best in the league but also among the most promising.

Furthermore, Girona’s midfield and attack effectively employ tactics like triangulation to maneuver the ball around defensive blocks.

The hope for Barcelona relies on the winning formula seen vs Atlético: The midfield.

In that order, Gündogan, Frenkie de Jong, and Pedri have emerged as the latest preferred starters for Barcelona, primarily due to the extensive range of skills they offer.

Every ball Pedri touches initiates an attack, while Frenkie and Gündogan are versatile midfielders, acting like Swiss Army knives against any opposition, adept at constantly varying their tactics and approaches.

In the attack, it’s quite evident that Barcelona will rely heavily on João Félix as a key threat. However, this also implies that the team can’t afford many errors.

The choice of who will play on the right – between Jules Koundé and Ronald Araújo – remains uncertain, reflecting Xavi’s ongoing tactical dilemma.

Barcelona vs Girona Betting Tip

Raphinha is one of Barcelona’s major threats off the ball. The Brazilian “winger” should have a blast against Girona.

It’s now or never, as Lamine Yamal will be ready to take over anytime if he does not prove his worth.

Following a missed crucial header in the opening minute against Atlético, he is likely eager for redemption. Therefore, he’s expected to capitalize on Girona’s defence, particularly against players like Eric García, who are prone to errors. 

 

Raphinha is expected to mark the defender and create threats with his runs behind the defensive line. His ability to unlock the game could indeed become the decisive factor, especially if Lewandowski continues missing opportunities, as seen in recent matches. 

If any of Barcelona’s forwards find the net, it would significantly boost the team’s chances in the race against Real Madrid. At the very least, it would apply pressure on Los Blancos, a challenge they haven’t yet faced this season.


Disclaimer: Odds are accurate at the time of posting and subject to change. Please verify the latest odds on our platform before betting.  


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