Real Madrid will face Girona on Sunday, February 23, at 12:15 PM (local time), at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, as part of the 25th round of La Liga 2024/25. This highly anticipated match has significant stakes for both teams.
Currently sitting third, Real Madrid is eager to regain the top spot in the league. The team, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, is tied on points with their arch-rivals, Barcelona, but trails due to goal difference. After recently securing their place in the Champions League knockout stage with a convincing 3-1 victory over Manchester City, confidence is high. Kylian Mbappé was the standout performer during this match, netting all three goals.
Conversely, Girona finds itself struggling after suffering two consecutive defeats, with losses to Getafe and Athletic Bilbao. The team, now entrenched at the 11th position with 31 points, hopes to reverse this trend and continue the fight for European competition spots. Under the guidance of coach Míchel, Girona aims to present tough resistance against the reigning champions.
Real Madrid’s line-up for the game will be impacted by several key absences: defender Éder Militão and right-back Dani Carvajal are both sidelined due to long-term injuries, and midfielder Jude Bellingham is suspended following his red card against Osasuna. This will force Ancelotti to adapt, potentially allowing more playing time for players who typically do not start, such as Modric and Fran García.
On the other hand, Girona’s squad will miss midfielder Yangel Herrera due to suspension as well. Coach Sánchez Muñoz will likely deploy Gazzaniga as goalkeeper, supported by David López, Krejci, and Blind at the back. Midfield will feature the likes of Oriol Romeu and Arthur Melo, with Stuani leading the attack.
The historical performance between these teams favors Real Madrid, which has achieved seven victories against Girona's three across their encounters, with one match ending in a draw. Their previous encounter this season also saw Real Madrid dominate with a comfortable 3-0 away win.
Recent statistics show Real Madrid scoring at an impressive rate, averaging 2.39 goals per match, which points to their offensive line’s strength. Girona, conversely, has struggled defensively, evident from suffering six defeats in their last seven outings. Their recent matches have shown vulnerability, particularly during away games.
The match will be available for live streaming on Disney+, allowing fans to catch every moment of this engaging La Liga clash. BBC's coverage promises thorough analysis and expert commentary, ensuring viewers get the full experience.
Betting odds favor Real Madrid to win, considering their current form and home advantage. Analysts and pundits predict they might secure at least two-goal lead against Girona, who faces the challenge of recovering form on the road.
Kickoff is set for 12:15 PM on Sunday, and excitement is building among fans as expectations run high for what promises to be another thrilling installment of La Liga football.
Both teams recognize the importance of this match on their respective campaigns: Real Madrid wants to return to the top of the table, and Girona aims to stave off their recent slump.
With everything at stake, fans can look forward to witnessing key players, thrilling action, and possibly dramatic moments at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu.