Girona enter this Champions League clash with Sturm Graz needing a victory to keep their hopes alive in the competition. With just three points from four games, the Spanish side will likely adopt an aggressive approach against their out-of-form Austrian opponents.

Sturm Graz have struggled defensively, conceding an average of 5.50 shots on target per game in the group stage. This fragility has contributed to their poor campaign, losing all four matches thus far.

Meanwhile, Girona average 3.95 shots on target per match and have surpassed the 5-shot mark in four of their last six games. Their recent attacking displays suggest they’re well-equipped to exploit Sturm Graz’s vulnerabilities and have enough firepower to record at least 5 shots on target here.

Bojan Miovski has been a standout performer for Girona recently, showcasing his attacking prowess in their impressive 4-1 victory over Espanyol last weekend. The Macedonian forward scored twice in that match, demonstrating his sharpness in front of goal.

Miovski is a consistent threat, averaging 2.07 shots per 90 minutes this season. Notably, he has had multiple shots in five of his last seven games, including three attempts in the Espanyol victory.

With Girona needing to attack and take control of this fixture against Sturm Graz, Miovski is likely to remain central to their offensive plans and could well take another 3 shots against a struggling Sturm Graz side.

Mika Biereth’s physical style of play has made him one of Sturm Graz’s most active foulers this season. The forward has already committed 17 fouls in just 11.7 90s, emphasising his aggressive approach to disrupting opponents.

Biereth has been consistent in his fouling, recording at least one foul in all of Sturm Graz’s Champions League matches to date, totalling eight fouls in four games.

Given Girona’s quick and technical play, Biereth will likely resort to his physicality to compete, increasing the likelihood of him committing another foul.

Otar Kiteishvili has been a key figure in Sturm Graz’s attack, leading the team in attempts this season. The Georgian midfielder has been one of their most reliable performers in an otherwise disappointing Champions League campaign.

Despite their struggles, Kiteishvili has managed a shot on target in two of his three Champions League appearances, averaging 0.8 shots on target per 90.

Girona’s defence, which allows an average of 11.84 shots per game, could give Kiteishvili opportunities to test the keeper again. As Sturm Graz push to salvage some pride in the competition, the responsibility for creating chances will likely fall on Kiteishvili’s shoulders and he’s high value at 1.91 to have an attempt on target here.

Emanuel Aiwu stands out as Sturm Graz’s most prolific fouler this season, with 23 fouls in just 12.1 90s. The defender has already committed 8 fouls in the Champions League group stage, recording multiple fouls in three of his four appearances.

Facing Girona’s fluid attack, Aiwu will likely find himself under pressure and could struggle to contain their movement without resorting to fouling. His track record suggests he’s a strong candidate to commit at least two fouls in this game with the stakes high.

Girona have been consistent in generating attacking opportunities, reflected in their average of 4.73 corners per game this season. This attacking approach is complemented by Sturm Graz’s defensive vulnerabilities, as the Austrian side concede an average of 6 corners per game. The recent form further supports this selection.

Girona have taken at least 4 corners in 11 of their last 13 matches, demonstrating their consistent ability to pressure opponents and earn set pieces. On the other hand, Sturm Graz’s defensive struggles are evident from the fact that their opponents have taken at least 4 corners in each of their last 9 matches.