The La Liga season heats up as Girona hosts Valencia at the Estadi Montilivi on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Girona, looking to improve in their campaign for yet another European place, will face a Valencia side eager to climb back into contention for yet another season in the La Liga because they are currently in relegation waters.
With both teams going into the game with different styles and vastly varying ambitions, this fixture looks to be an intriguing and hard fought battle.
Girona’s journey in the last few years has been nothing short of remarkable. Previously overshadowed in Spanish football, the Catalan club has steadily built a reputation for their fearless and organized style of play. Under the guidance of manager Míchel, Girona has embraced a brand of football that balances defense with sharp attacking moves.
Veteran players like Oriol Romeu and striker Cristhian Stuani have long been providing midfield stability and goals respectively in the team that Girona need to compete at the top level. Donny van de Beek’s sharp movement in the midfield and ability to convert chances have made him one of the important stars for them so far this season, while Groenveld continues to offer experience, physicality and conversion in the final third.
Also, in midfield, Arnau Martinez and Oriol Romeu are key, bringing energy, creativity, and balance to Girona’s midfield. The duo’s ability to disrupt opposition attacks and launch quick counters has been pivotal to Girona’s success. On the wings, Bryan Gil and Miguel Gutierrez inject pace and unpredictability, often catching opposition fullbacks off guard.
At the back, Girona’s defence, led by David Lopez and Juanpe, has been solid but will face a stern test against Valencia’s sharp forwards. Goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga has also been impressive, making crucial saves to keep Girona competitive in tight matches where they are unable to score. The former Fulham goalkeeper has been a mainstay in the team.
Girona’s strength lies in their ability to make the most of their chances and capitalize on counter opportunities from their opponents. Their home form has been fair this season, and with a packed Estadi Montilivi behind them, Girona will likely be confident about getting a win. Their fans know they will need to be in their large numbers in order to support their beloved team, they will need to purchase Girona tickets from an online resale store.
Valencia’s season has been filled with fewer ups and many more downs, as manager Ruben Baraja works to restore the club to its former glory. The team’s young squad, combined with a few experienced heads, has but shown very few glimpses of quality but remains inconsistent. They have suffered this season because of the disaster that hit their city that saw thousands of people displaced and hundreds deceased. This disaster has definitely played a role in the emotional stability of the team and have seen the team accumulate 3 outstanding league fixtures. Their league position is actually very precarious, as they are currently rock bottom of the La Liga and have just 10 points, 6 points away from safety.
Playing against Girona, a team that has been quick to establish themselves as a regular La Liga side, will certainly be difficult but Valencia remain a La Liga powerhouse, and writing them off in this tie, may be very far-fetched.
Valencia’s attacking play is led by Hugo Duro, who has had spells of fine form for the team in recent seasons. The Spanish striker’s ability to hold up play and finish chances has been key for Los Che. Supporting him is Diego López, whose pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat on the flanks for any team.
In midfield, Javi Guerra has been a standout performer, showcasing his technical ability and composure on the ball. Alongside him, Pepelu, who provides defensive cover and leadership, helps Valencia control the tempo of matches. Luis Rioja and Fran Perez man the wings for Los Che, and with their pace, technicality and crossing they can be a threat to any opposition.
Defensively, Valencia have shown improvement this season, with Christian Mosquera and Cesar Tarega forming a centre back partnership at the heart of the backline. However, their defence will need to be sharp and disciplined to contain Girona’s dynamic forwards. Goalkeeper Stole Dimitrieveski has been quite solid, and he is one that can be relied upon with countless saves. He alongside Giorgi Mamardashvi man the posts for Los Che, and either will be hoping for the opportunity to start against Girona.
Valencia’s potential of winning in this fixture will depend on their ability to stay united defensively while waiting for Girona’s expected defensive mistakes and position themselves for counters and winning set-pieces.
Match tickets
The Estadi Montilivi, with a capacity of around 14,000, is expected to be buzzing with excitement for this match. Girona fans have been turning out in numbers to support their team’s impressive run, and this game against Valencia is no exception.
Girona vs Valencia tickets are available through Girona’s official website and authorized ticketing platforms. Valencia supporters have also been allocated away tickets, and a significant number are expected to make the trip to cheer their team on.
Fans unable to attend the game can watch live broadcasts on La Liga’s official broadcasting networks or streaming services.
Team news
Both sides will be hoping for fully fit squads, though injuries and suspensions could play a role in team selection.
Girona XI: Gazzaniga; Martínez, López, Juanpe, Gutiérrez; Gil, Blind, van de Beek; Romeu, Aspirilla, Groenveld
Valencia XI: Dimitrieveski; Foulquier, Tarega, Mosquera, Vasquez; Pepelu, Perez, Guerra; Lopez, Duro, Pérez
Prediction
This game promises to be a closely contested battle between two teams hoping for different things. Valencia will be keen on avoiding relegation while their hosts are looking for yet another go in Europe.
Expect Girona to dominate possession, with Valencia looking to hit on the counter. Both teams are capable of scoring, but Girona’s quality and better form might just make the difference.
Girona 2-1 Valencia