Match Preview: Girona vs. Arsenal (Champions League) - 2025
As the Champions League group stage comes to a close, Arsenal heads to Girona’s Montilivi stadium on Wednesday evening, needing just a point to confirm their place in the last 16. Mikel Arteta’s side, who secured a dominant 3-0 win over Dinamo Zagreb last time out, are in fine form heading into this crucial European clash.
For Girona, their European journey is already over following a disappointing 1-0 loss to AC Milan on matchday seven. The hosts have struggled in their debut Champions League campaign, with their only victory coming against Slovan Bratislava. Despite a tough run, including four consecutive defeats without scoring, Girona is aiming to end their European adventure on a high note.
Arsenal's Form Heading into the Match
Arsenal’s recent form has been solid, with three wins from their last four matches. Arteta’s men are still in contention for both the Premier League and Champions League, though a win or even a draw against Girona will be enough to guarantee their place in the knockout stages.
The Gunners have been outstanding defensively, not conceding from open play in their last Champions League matches. In the Premier League, they battled through a 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, thanks to a goal by Riccardo Calafiori. Key players like Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Martin Ødegaard have been instrumental in their recent victories, with Havertz looking to score for a fourth consecutive Champions League match.
Injury News and Lineup Updates
Arsenal faces a few injury concerns ahead of this match. Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Gabriel Jesus (ACL), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee) remain sidelined, while Ødegaard (illness) and Mikel Merino (knock) are doubts. Despite these absences, Arteta has a strong squad available, with Kai Havertz, who is in good form, expected to lead the attack.
Girona, on the other hand, will be without key players such as Bryan Gil, who is suspended for accumulating three yellow cards in the competition. Additionally, Daley Blind and goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga are nursing injuries. With several key players unavailable, Girona will be under pressure to perform.
Possible Lineups:
Girona:
P. Lopez; Martinez, D. Lopez, Juanpe, Frances; Romeu, Herrera; Tsygankov, Van de Beek, Danjuma; Ruiz
Arsenal:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Ødegaard, Jorginho, Rice; Nwaneri, Havertz, Martinelli
Prediction: Girona 0-2 Arsenal
Arsenal's defense and attacking prowess should see them comfortably through to the knockout stages of the Champions League. Despite Girona’s efforts, their lack of clinical finishing and injury-hit squad will make it difficult for them to cause an upset. Arsenal is expected to secure a 2-0 victory and continue their strong European campaign.
