Girona secured a victory over Barcelona in a thrilling match and rises up to the top spot in La Liga
Liam Carter
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
On Sunday, December 10th, the Catalan derby took place as Barcelona hosted the season's major surprise, Girona, in the 16th round of La Liga.
Girona secured a 4:2 victory. This triumph stands as the team's first win over their more prominent neighbors in this derby.
Girona took the lead in the 12th minute. Ukrainian Dovbyk scored following a pass from his compatriot Tsygankov. It was a splendid three-way play initiated by Couto.
The Blaugranas equalized in less than 10 minutes. Lewandowski, unmarked by anyone, headed the ball into Gazzaniga's net from a corner kick.
However, just before the break, Girona went ahead for the second time. Real Madrid product Gutierrez blasted a powerful shot past Peña, concluding a successful run.
In the second half Girona continued their dominance and even scored a third goal. In the 80th minute, Valery capitalized on a pass from Stuani, maneuvering past the opponent's defense to strike the ball past the goalkeeper.
Barcelona displayed resilience by pulling one goal in additional time back through Gundogan's efforts. However, the final say belonged to the visitors as Stuani brought Barcelona to their knees.
Michell's team claimed the top spot in the table, surpassing Real by two points, while Xavi's men sit in fourth place.
- La Liga, Round 16th
Barcelona - Girona 2:4 (1:2)
Goals: Lewandowski, 19, Gundogan, 90+1 - Dovbyk, 12, Gutierrez, 40, Valery Fernandez, 80, Stuani, 90+5
