Preview and odds analysis for Barcelona vs Girona at 21:15 on October 18, 2025. Predictions, expected lineups, and expert commentary for the La Liga 2025/26 Round 9 fixture between Barcelona and Girona.
90-minute odds: 0 : 2
Total goals: 3 3/4
Following a brilliant early-season run, Barcelona enters October facing pressure after consecutive losses – a 1-4 defeat to Sevilla FC and a 1-2 loss to Paris Saint-Germain F.C. in the Champions League. Now, under coach Hansi Flick, the team needs a victory to revive confidence and reclaim first place. Despite missing key players like Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Ter Stegen, the Catalan side still has game-changers such as Pedri, De Jong, Rashford, and young talent Toni Fernandez. Their strengths include ball possession, high pressing, and exploiting wing speed. Home advantage at Nou Camp and superior head-to-head history give them a strong upper hand.
On the opposite side, Girona had a tough start but is steadily regaining confidence. Coach Míchel Sánchez’s team is unbeaten in the last three matches and recently achieved a vital 2-1 win over Valencia CF, moving out of the relegation zone. Despite a depleted squad due to injuries and suspensions, the visitors maintain an energetic style—fast pressing and quick counterattacks. Forward Vladyslav Vanat and midfield pair Witsel – Roca are key figures for Girona. However, playing away at Nou Camp against a points-desperate Barca is a major challenge.
Barcelona has won 7 of 11 encounters with Girona, scoring 35 goals—averaging over 3 goals per game. Last season, Barca won both matches 4-1, but in 2023/24, Girona shocked by winning both games. In the last five meetings, Barcelona won 3, Girona 2. Although Girona caused surprises, the historical advantage clearly favors Barca, especially at home.
Barcelona: Absent Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Marc-André ter Stegen, Joan Garcia, and Ferran Torres (injuries). Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez have returned to training and are likely to play but may start on the bench.
Girona: Missing Alejandro Frances, Ivan Martin (suspended), Juan Carlos, David Lopez, Donny van de Beek (injuries). Ruiz, Tsygankov, and Ounahi awaiting fitness tests.
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, E. Garcia, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Bardghji, Fermin, Rashford; T. Fernandez.
Girona (3-4-3): Gazzaniga; Reis, Blind, Martinez; Rincon, Solis, Witsel, Moreno; Roca, Vanat, Gil.