Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
A less-than-ideal start compels both PSV Eindhoven and Girona FC to go all out in their head-to-head clash in the fourth round. Bookmakers favour the Dutch champions, despite both teams facing challenges due to injuries.
PSV Eindhoven
PSV Eindhoven's unbeaten run of seven matches, which began after a disappointing trip to Juventus (1:3), was halted over the weekend. Although they suffered a defeat to Ajax (2:3) in the Dutch "Klassieker", PSV Eindhoven demonstrated solid attacking football, generating 1.08 xG from 12 shots. Against Sporting CP and Paris Saint-Germain (both 1:1), they were forced to play defensively, but tonight they could control possession more frequently.
Girona
In early October, Girona couldn't withstand the challenge of Feyenoord (2:3), the Dutch vice-champions, despite creating far more chances (2.64 vs 1.61 in xG). This season, they are holding a mid-table position in La Liga; however, they have scored eight goals in their last two domestic league games due to their aggressive style. Against Leganes (4:3), the Catalans conceded three times from just 0.39 xGA and five shots on target.
PSV Eindhoven vs Girona Prediction
Both clubs are set to miss at least six key players each due to injuries. PSV Eindhoven and Girona will likely take risks in this encounter as both sides' strengths lie in their attacking capabilities.
