Real Madrid faced Girona at the Santiago Bernabéu on December 7, 2024, for their La Liga Matchday 25 clash, with both teams eager for points to improve their standings. Carlo Ancelotti, coaching Real Madrid, made some notable adjustments to his starting lineup following previous games, particularly after their impressive victory over Manchester City just days earlier.
The starting XI for Real Madrid featured Thibaut Courtois as the goalkeeper, supported by Lucas Vázquez, David Alaba, Raúl Asecio, and Ferland Mendy as defenders. Midfield saw Aurélien Tchouaméni, Luka Modric, and Brahim Díaz taking positions, with Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, and Kylian Mbappé leading the attack. Notably, Jude Bellingham was suspended after receiving a red card and did not participate, prompting Ancelotti to rest Fede Valverde and Antonio Rüdiger as well.
On the other hand, Girona, under Michel Sánchez, presented their own strategy with five defenders and opted not to field a traditional striker. Their lineup included Paulo Gazzaniga as goalkeeper, with Arnau Martínez and Daley Blind anchoring the defense. Viktor Tsyhankov and Arnaut Danjuma were designated as key offensive players aiming to capitalize on counter-attacks.
The match started with Real Madrid quickly asserting dominance, showcasing their attacking strength. Early attempts by Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé highlighted their intentions, but both failed to find the back of the net initially. A shot from Rodrygo was deflected wide after he was set up by Luka Modric, demonstrating Madrid's efforts to break down Girona's seasoned defense.
For Girona, Donny van de Beek made his presence known by testing Courtois, who made several impressive saves throughout the match. Girona's attackers, particularly Danjuma, posed substantial threats, leveraging speed and tactical plays against Real’s defensive setups.
Throughout the first half, shots were exchanged at both ends, but neither team could convert these opportunities. Attempt after attempt from Real was met with stiff resistance from Girona's backline. Despite the high tempo of play, Girona managed to counter effectively, with Tsyhankov nearly scoring as his shot sailed over the bar.
Not one to shy away from probing defenses, Vinícius crafted more openings down the left flank, yet struggled to find teammates for decisive finishes. Midfield orchestrators Modric and Tchouaméni battled to regain control, working tirelessly to swing the momentum back to Madrid.
At halftime, Real Madrid remained determined, trailing Girona as they aimed to pull even. The atmosphere at the Bernabéu grew anxious, reflecting fans’ hopes for their team's resurgence.
After the break, Madrid made tactical adjustments, pushing for increased intensity. Ancelotti's side saw substitutions as they sought fresh legs to shift momentum, particularly with Brahim Díaz continuing to look lively. Chances were created and missed as both teams positioned themselves strategically.
Gazzaniga for Girona was forced to intervene multiple times, particularly against shots from Modric and Rodrygo, turning away potential goals. Real’s attempts to widen the scoreline continued but fell short as Girona’s perseverance shone through.
Despite Girona's mid-table status, they showed resilience and skill, defending well and executing swift counter-attacks. This tactic generated several concerns for the Madrid side, showing Girona's commitment to challenging the odds against the prestigious team.
Matchday 25 proved significant for both squads as Real continued pressing forward. Ancelotti’s leadership focused on rediscovering team chemistry, especially with static defensive formations. The challenge for Girona involved maintaining focus under pressure as Madrid's relentless pursuit of control intensified.
By the full-time whistle, the tally showed the score even, reflecting the challenges presented by Girona's determined performance against one of La Liga's top teams. The day highlighted strategic battles not only of players but of ideas, formations, and managerial craft.
This match will be remembered as another chapter in the storied rivalry between the two clubs and as Girona's opportunity to stand firm against the giants. Although Real aimed to improve their standings, Girona’s performance echoed resilience and hope, hinting at future contests where surprises may still lurk.