La Liga
Real Madrid vs Girona Preview
Real Madrid welcome Girona to the Santiago Bernabeu as they seek to close the gap between themselves and league leaders Barcelona.
After a hard fought victory against Ajax mid-week, there is a question of fatigue for the Spanish giants.
Meanwhile, their visitors are eager to bring a 13 game win-less streak to an end. Girona are currently in a slump despite a positive start to the season, winning 6 of their first 10 matches.
Eusebio Sacristán’s men currently find themselves 17th in the table, one point from the relegation zone.
Team News
Los Blancos only confirmed injury for Sunday’s match is midfielder Marcos Llorente. However, defender Rafael Varane missed last match with a flu and has not trained with the team as of yet.
Out-of-favor midfielder Isco has recovered from a back problem and may find minutes against the Catalans.
The visitors themselves have a number of players unavailable. Namely Johan Mojica, Aday, Seydou Doumbia and Marc Muniesa who are all out injured.
Elsewhere, defender Bernardo Espinosa is serving his one match suspension after picking up a red card last weekend.
Lineups and Prediction
Real Madrid: Courtois; Carvajal, Nacho, Ramos, Marcelo; Ceballos, Kroos, Casemiro; Asensio, Benzema, Lucas
Girona: Bounou; R Garcia, Juanpe, Ramalho; Valery, Pons, A Garcia, Porro; Portu, Stuani, Lozano
Madrid coach Santiago Solari has brought his team to within six points of the top with 15 match-days remaining. As a result, the Argentinian won’t take any chances against their opponents.
Girona may be struggling at the moment but should not be taken for granted either. Especially on the road where the club has had more success this season. Even holding Barcelona to a draw in September.
In the final analysis, the whites have already defeated Sacristán’s team three times this season. Scoring three or more goals each time.
Expect Marco Asensio to get on the score sheet for his second time in two matches as the hosts extend their winning streak in the league to six matches.
Real Madrid 4 – 1 Girona
Photo credit to Soi kèo Ngon via Flickr
