As Girona FC makes their Champions League debut, they face a daunting task against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Matchday 1 of the newly revamped league phase. Here’s a detailed preview of the upcoming clash, including predicted lineups and match forecast.
Contents
Match Details
Date: Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Kick-off Time: 8:00 p.m. GMT (3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT)
Location: Parc des Princes, Paris
Referee: Daniel Siebert (GER)
VAR: Christian Dingert (GER)
How to Watch
United Kingdom: Discovery+, discovery+ App, TNT Sports 4
United States: Paramount+, ViX
Canada: DAZN
PSG Lineup and Team News
PSG has been cruising in Ligue 1, winning their first four matches with ease. Despite the absence of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola have excelled in his place. However, the team will miss Lucas Hernandez, Presnel Kimpembe, and Goncalo Ramos. Marco Asensio might fill a forward role, with Randal Kolo Muani as another option. Gianluigi Donnarumma is out due to a thigh injury, and midfielders Warren Zaire-Emery and Vitinha are doubtful. Expect changes at center-back, with Marquinhos and William Pacho likely to start.
Predicted PSG Lineup (4-3-3):
GK: Safonov
Defenders: Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes
Midfielders: Vitinha, Neves, Fabian
Forwards: Dembele, Asensio, Barcola
Girona Lineup and Team News
Having qualified for the Champions League for the first time, Girona faces a tough challenge. They are missing Ricard Artero and Jastin due to injuries, with Yangel Herrera also a doubt. However, Oriol Romeu returns to the midfield. Donny van de Beek and Bryan Gil may start on the bench, while Arnaut Danjuma is expected to play on the wing.
Predicted Girona Lineup (4-3-3):
GK: Gazzaniga
Defenders: Frances, Lopez, Blind, Gutierrez
Midfielders: Martin, Romeu, Solis
Forwards: Tsygankov, Ruiz, Danjuma
Match Forecast
PSG has shown strong form this season, and despite missing some key players, their depth and quality are likely to overpower Girona. With Girona struggling against top La Liga sides and facing a formidable opponent, PSG is expected to dominate the match. A comfortable victory for the French champions seems imminent.
Prediction: PSG 3-0 Girona
