Girona are set to make their debut in Europe’s premier club competition as they travel to face Ligue 1 giants PSG at the Parc des Princes. Despite Girona’s impressive performance last season, they face a daunting challenge against one of the biggest clubs in world football.
PSG have made an outstanding start to the new season, winning all four of their league matches. They will look to continue their winning streak in the Champions League when they host Girona.
Heading into this fixture, PSG are buoyed by a 3-1 victory over Brest, showcasing a dominant performance. The French side will be confident of securing a win against Girona.
Girona, meanwhile, surprised many with their exceptional run in La Liga last season. However, with several key players having left the club over the summer, they have had a mixed start to the current campaign, recording two wins, two losses, and a draw from their first five league games.
The Catalan team is coming off a 4-1 defeat to local rivals Barcelona, where they were thoroughly outplayed. Girona will need to bounce back with a stronger performance against PSG. The Hard Tackle delves into a closer analysis of both teams and explores the tactics they might employ in this exciting encounter.
PSG vs Girona Tactics
Paris Saint-Germain
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes; Lee, Ruiz, Neves; Dembele, Kolo Muani, Barcola
Girona
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Gazzaniga; Frances, Lopez, Blind, Gutierrez; Martin, Romeu, Solis; Tsygankov, Ruiz, Danjuma
Key Stats
- Girona are preparing for their debut in the UEFA Champions League.
- PSG have won all four of their fixtures so far this season.
- Girona’s 4-1 loss to Barcelona was their heaviest home defeat since Michel took over as manager in 2021.
- PSG have scored two or more goals in 15 of their last 20 matches.
- Girona have scored eight goals and conceded the same number in their five league games this season.
Player to Watch
Ousmane Dembele
With Kylian Mbappé’s departure, Ousmane Dembélé has emerged as the new focal point of PSG’s attack. The 27-year-old winger has enjoyed a strong start to the season, netting three goals and providing three assists in his first four league matches. Dembélé will be keen to continue his impressive form as PSG kick off their UEFA Champions League campaign against Girona on Matchday 1.
Prediction
Paris Saint Germain 3-1 Girona
Girona exceeded expectations last season, but many of the key players who contributed to their success have since left the club. Although manager Michel remains optimistic about making things work with his current squad, Girona will likely struggle against a dominant PSG side.
With PSG in top form, it’s hard to see Girona stopping them. The Hard Tackle predicts a comfortable 3-1 victory for PSG at home.
How to Watch PSG vs Girona
Watch online via NaijaSport247 TV.
