Fourteen points from their last eighteen points in play and a midweek Copa del Rey second-round qualification in hand, Girona touches down in San Sebastián carrying ruthless momentum.
The Zubieta Challenge
Today’s kickoff at Zubieta pits Quique Álvarez’s squad against a Real Sociedad B outfit mired in a punishing six-match losing streak. Girona arrives bolstered by consecutive home victories at Montilivi against Andorra and Celta Fortuna. While an early red card shown to Celta’s Meixús in the 23rd minute eased that fixture, the team’s high rate of effectiveness routinely demoralizes opponents before they can settle into the match.
Chasing the Primera División
Since June, the club has harbored one objective: a return to the Primera División as soon as possible, ideally via direct promotion that bypasses the playoff gauntlet. Sitting close to the top two in the standings, the visitors face a reserve side expected to lean heavily on a physical approach rather than talent.
Squad Rotations and Fitness Concerns
Álvarez welcomes back Asprilla and Mumin for the journey, though injuries continue to sideline Bryan Gil, Boñar, and Jastin. The starting eleven is expected to closely mirror the lineup that dismantled Celta, pending a final assessment on Asprilla’s full fitness to start.
Real sociedad vs Girona
Midfield Orchestration
Unai Hernández commands strong backing for the attacking midfield role following a standout performance against the Galician side that featured both a goal and an assist. Should Asprilla fail his fitness test, tactical adjustments could force Hernández wide to accommodate the introduction of Van de Beek, Pyshchur, or Abel Ruiz. On the opposing bench, Jon Ansotegi must plan without the services of Orobengoa.
