On Tuesday, Girona have a decent opportunity to secure their maiden Champions League victory as they face Slovan Bratislava in the third round. The Slovak side have already conceded nine goals in 180 minutes of this European campaign, providing the hosts a chance to boost their scoring tally.
After a narrow defeat to Paris Saint-Germain (0:1), Girona couldn't keep up with Feyenoord (2:3). With five accurate shots and high xG for both sides (2.64 vs 1.61), neither team scored from a penalty—the Catalans relish a lively football style. In their last match against Real Sociedad (0:1), the team could not field five regular starters, forcing them to take risks against the underdog in pursuit of points.
Whether away against Celtic (1:5) or at home against Manchester City (0:4), Slovan Bratislava have struggled to contend against opponents with a high defensive line. Against the English side, they conceded an xGA of 4.50 from 28 shots—the team need possession to remain defensively sound. In five of their last six away matches, at least three goals were scored.
In Catalonia, both of these Group Stage outsiders will look to challenge each other by constantly creating chances. Girona and Slovan Bratislava will surpass the total over—expect goals, including from the Bratislava side.
