Girona takes on Barcelona at Estadi Montilivi on Monday, 16th of February 2026 – a crucial match in the Catalan derby. The kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM local time (9:00 PM WAT or 7:00 PM GMT).
This fixture comes at a bad time for Hansi Flick‘s Barcelona, as they try to bounce back from a tough Copa del Rey defeat to Atlético Madrid in the hope of reclaiming top spot in La Liga where they currently sit second with 58 points. Girona, with 26 points and teetering above the relegation zone in 15th place, badly need to come away with a home win against their neighbours to turn their season around.
Match Summary
Barcelona have been in unstoppable form this season. They are top of the league in goals scored, and have been dominating the opposition. In their last meeting against Girona in October of 2025, they managed to squeeze out a 2-1 victory. Over the past 15 encounters, they have taken 10 wins and have not lost to Girona in a while. However, despite their current poor form, the Blaugrana remain the favourites going into this match, thanks to their high skill level and determination to put things right.
Girona, on the other hand, have been all over the place this season – they have managed two wins in their last five league games but their defense has been leaking like a sieve and they are badly in need of a home win. Montilivi is not an easy place for the opposition to visit, but Barcelona have got the depth to put on a show. We can expect goals in this one, especially given how high-scoring Barcelona games tend to be – recent derbies against Girona have seen over 2.5 goals in quite a few cases.
Head-to-head: The last thing Girona want to hear is that Barcelona have a clear edge and this will be an uphill task for them. Still, they will give it their all at home.
Possible Lineups
Girona (4-2-3-1): Gazzaniga in goal – alongside him is a back four comprising of Rincón, Reis, Blind and Martínez. Midfield duo Martín and Witsel – Tsygankov, Lemar and Gil on the wings – and Vanat up front. Girona are missing some key players including Juan Carlos and Donny van de Beek, which is a serious blow to them. Daley Blind doing well to organize the backline, while Viktor Tsygankov and Bryan Gil bring creativity to the table.
Barcelona (4-2-3-1): Joan García in the goal and alongside him is a back four comprising of Koundé, Cubarsí, Eric García and Balde. Midfield duo De Jong and Bernal – and then Yamal, Olmo/Fermín, Ferran Torres on the wings – and up front Lewandowski leading the charge. Hansi Flick is dealing with a long list of absentees including Gavi and Pedri, but Lamine Yamal is back, bringing a bit of flair and Robert Lewandowski will be leading the attack.
Prediction
Its going to be an interesting match to watch. Barcelona’s sheer quality, response to their recent loss and historical dominance are all going to play in their favour. Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski should be able to create opportunities against Girona’s defense, while Barcelona controlling the midfield should limit the visitors’ counter-attacks. Girona may still score at home thanks to the likes of Tsygankov, but Barcelona’s form, motivation and their need for points should see them through to a comfortable away win that puts them back on top.
Final score prediction: 1-3 Girona – no, wait – Girona 1-3 Barcelona
