Girona FC's Estadi Montilivi will host European competition

There is a buzz in the city of Girona, as the Champions League is coming to the Estadi Montilivi for the first time ever when the local side takes on Dutch club Feyenoord. Since the stadium was inaugurated on August 14th 1970, it has never hosted a European match, and certainly not a Champions League game. But, that’s about to change. Girona FC celebrated the 50th anniversary of the stadium in 2020 and now, 54 years after its opening, it’ll host the most unique game in Girona FC’s history. 

The Catalan outfit will hope to claim all three points, having suffered a loss in the opening round, albeit a narrow 1-0 defeat away at PSG. Despite the loss, there is a sense that the team is ready to take on the best of Europe and that they can still make an impact in the competition. 

Regardless of the result, this will be a historic day for Girona FC. They have never hosted a match of this kind, so there will be a party atmosphere no matter what happens. Míchel’s team earned the right to play these games after they put together such a successful season last term, when they were one of the best teams in Europe and in Spain at points, in terms of their play and results. 

At the beginning of this season, Girona FC haven’t had quite the same success as last year but they continue to play good football. Whether they win, lose or draw, they are always recognisable. On Wednesday, they’ll hope to play the Girona FC way and give their fans a famous victory to cheer about in Europe’s premier competition. 

The stadium will be packed, as the fans of the Catalan team are beyond excited. UEFA rules do mean that the club had to reduce their capacity slightly for European matches, so Girona FC held a draw to decide which members are able to attend and enjoy this European game. 

Stuani’s journey: From the second tier to Europe, all with Girona FC

Uruguayan forward Cristhian Stuani is probably the greatest player in the history of the club and was able to make history at the Parque des Princes when he was a starter and captain for Girona FC’s first ever Champions League game. Now, he’ll be able to enjoy their home debut in this competition, in front of the supporters he has given so much to cheer about over the years. He has stuck with the team through thick and thin, and is now able to enjoy this prize of European football. 

In total, the Uruguayan has played 254 matches and scored 132 goals for Girona FC. Those are incredible numbers, as he is averaging a goal every two games, specifically 0.52 goals per match. It’ll be hard for any future player to match those numbers. Stuani could be a starter again on Wednesday, as coach Míchel is clear that his service deserves to be rewarded. This is no ordinary week in the city of Girona. It’s time to enjoy this special moment, and the Estadi Montilivi is the place to be this Wednesday.