MADRID, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- La Liga resumes after the international break, with Girona hoping to maintain their exceptional season, while Real Madrid and FC Barcelona face injury challenges. Here are some key points to watch for in Matchday 14 in Spain:

1. CAN GIRONA KEEP IT GOING?

Girona, having won 11 of their first 13 games, have displayed impressive football and resilience, especially in their recent comeback victories against Osasuna and Rayo Vallecano.

Athletic Bilbao, known for their high-pressure play and the attacking prowess of the Williams brothers, will test Girona at Montilivi on Monday night. Despite Athletic's aggressive style, their injury-hit defense has been vulnerable, conceding seven goals in their last three league matches.

The encounter promises to be an engaging affair.

2. INJURIES PILE UP FOR REAL MADRID

Real Madrid's injury list lengthened during the international break with Eduardo Camavinga and Vinicius Jr joining Eder Militao, Aurelien Tchouameni, Thibaut Courtois, Kepa and Arda Turan on the sidelines, while Jude Bellingham is a slight doubt.

The injuries leave Carlo Ancelotti short of options to rotate in central midfield, but Dani Ceballos should be able to help Toni Kroos and Luka Modric and in attack, Brahim Diaz has taken advantage of the few chances he has been given to impress.

Fortunately for Madrid, their upcoming fixtures seem manageable, starting with a struggling Cadiz, followed by a Champions League clash against Napoli, where they have already secured a last-16 spot, and then hosting Granada.

3. BARCA MISSES GAVI, BUT OTHERS SHOULD GIVE COVER

FC Barcelona were rocked by the season-ending knee injury suffered by Gavi during the international break, and they will miss his energy in Saturday's visit to an always-lively Rayo Vallecano on Saturday lunchtime.

The good news for Barca is that Frenkie de Jong should return, and they will welcome back his control in central midfield, while Pedri will play an ever-increasing role as he comes back from a bad muscle injury.

Finally, Fermin Lopez has impressed since getting his chance in October and can now expect more first team minutes than would otherwise have been the case.

4. MORE PAIN AT BOTTOM FOR ALMERIA AND GRANADA

Bottom-placed Almeria and second from the bottom Granada face challenging matches this weekend. Granada, under Paco Lopez, have earned less than their performances deserve, which explains the club's patience with him. However, a defeat against direct relegation rival Alaves could strain this patience.

Almeria, seeming destined for relegation, face a crucial match against Getafe. Another loss could spell the end of Gaizka Garitano's brief tenure at the club. Enditem

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