Girona stunned Barcelona with a dramatic late winner, securing a 2-1 victory at Estadio Municipal de Montilivi.
Girona pulled off a stunning upset against Barcelona, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory at Estadio Municipal de Montilivi. Fran Beltrán's late winner sealed a memorable La Liga clash on February 16, 2026.
Heading into the match, second-placed Barcelona were heavy favorites, boasting a strong league position. Girona, languishing in 15th, desperately sought points to distance themselves from the relegation battle.
The first half unfolded with Barcelona largely controlling possession. Despite their territorial advantage, clear-cut chances were difficult to create against a resolute Girona defense.
A crucial moment arrived just before the break. Barcelona earned a penalty in the 45th minute. Lamine Yamal stepped up, but his effort from the spot missed, keeping the score level at halftime.
The half-time whistle blew with the score still 0-0, much to Girona's relief. Barcelona, despite their dominance and missed penalty, knew they needed more clinical finishing.
Barcelona finally broke the deadlock in the 59th minute. Young defender Pau Cubarsí guided the ball home, with Jules Kounde providing the assist. This gave the visitors a hard-fought lead.
Girona responded almost immediately, electrifying the home crowd. Just three minutes later, Thomas Lemar fired in the equalizer in the 62nd minute. Vladyslav Vanat provided the critical pass.
The match became a tense affair with both teams pushing for a winner. Managers introduced new attacking options, including G. Martin and Raphinha for Barcelona, seeking a decisive edge.
As the game approached its conclusion, Girona delivered the decisive blow. Fran Beltrán, a second-half substitute, smashed home the winning goal in the 87th minute, assisted by Joel Roca.
Barcelona dominated with 71% possession and registered 26 total shots. However, only 4 of those attempts hit the target, highlighting their struggles to convert pressure into goals.
Girona made fewer opportunities count, registering 9 shots on target from 13 total attempts. Their expected goals (xG) of 2.76 nearly matched Barcelona's 2.88. Barcelona's goalkeeper Joan García also made 7 crucial saves.
This stunning 2-1 victory for Girona halts Barcelona's impressive form, denting their La Liga title aspirations. For Girona, it represents a massive three points and a historic moment at Montilivi. Joel Roca received a red card in the final seconds.
