As La Liga fans eagerly await the upcoming clash between Girona and Athletic Bilbao on November 27th, all eyes are on the league leader, Girona, as they aim to maintain their winning streak in the Spanish championship after Match Day 14.
Girona’s dominance has been evident, having secured victory in all matches where they were considered the favorites. However, their only setbacks came against formidable Champions League participants – Real Madrid and Real Sociedad. Despite these challenges, the Catalans have amassed an impressive 33 points against less formidable opponents.
Manager Michel’s tactical prowess has been a key factor in Girona’s success. Employing the classic 4-4-2 formation in defense, Michel unveils captivating attacking schemes such as the 4-3-3 with a withdrawn forward and 3-2-2-3 against teams with an active pressing strategy. The team’s effectiveness lies in their ability to execute fast plays through triangles in the half-flanks, making them a formidable force in the attacking third.
Drawing a parallel to the historical defensive style of Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Bilbao in 2016, it appears that nowadays the coach has abandoned caution and pragmatism. In the 13 matches featuring Athletic Bilbao, a staggering 42 goals were scored, averaging more than three per 90 minutes.
Athletic Bilbao has displayed confidence against top-tier teams, including Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, occasionally pressuring them on their own half. Girona, on the other hand, has shown a tendency to score in the second half, with only one first-half goal in their six home matches.
The dynamics of the match promise excitement, with Athletic Bilbao abandoning a defensive approach and posing a significant threat in fast attacks. Girona, known for its similar style, boasts greater versatility in positioning. Both teams rank in the top 5 of La Liga for expected goals.
One player to watch is the Ghanaian right winger, Inaki Williams, a consistent goal-scorer and a leader for Athletic Bilbao. Having found the net five times in 13 La Liga matches, Williams aims to make his mark in a showdown against the season leader, Girona. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to witness if Williams can contribute to Athletic Bilbao’s goal tally once again.
As betting enthusiasts consider their options, the odds for a goal from Williams at 1xBet are 3.4, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated encounter.
