Spanish champions Barcelona suffered a damaging 2–1 defeat to Girona on Monday, a result that leaves them two points behind leaders Real Madrid CF in the La Liga title race.
Los Blancos had edged Real Sociedad on Saturday to climb to the summit, and Hansi Flick’s side failed to respond in an intense Catalan derby that could have restored their lead.
Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal endured a frustrating night, missing a penalty after Dani Olmo was brought down in the box by Daley Blind. Yamal struck the post from the spot, compounding Barca’s wastefulness in front of goal.
After a goalless but high-tempo first half, Barcelona eventually broke the deadlock in the 59th minute when defender Pau Cubarsi headed home from a cross delivered by Jules Kounde.
However, Girona responded swiftly. Thomas Lemar capitalised on a defensive lapse to convert from close range after a pass by Ukrainian striker Vladyslav Vanat. The momentum shifted firmly in the hosts’ favour, and Fran Beltran’s decisive strike completed the comeback to seal a memorable derby victory for the 12th-placed side.
Barcelona had earlier spurned several opportunities, with Raphinha hitting the post and Ferran Torres firing wide, while Girona goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga produced key saves to frustrate the visitors.
Speaking after the match, Cubarsi admitted the team must improve.
“We have to be self-critical, we didn’t play a great game. We have to improve, but now we have to rest and recharge,” he said.
The defeat deals a significant blow to Barcelona’s title defence, with the race at the top of La Liga tightening as the season progresses.
