By 
Girona pulled off a memorable 2–1 victory over Barcelona in a dramatic La Liga clash at the Estadi Montilivi on Tuesday as hosts fought back after conceding to claim a stunning win over one of Spain’s title contenders.
Barcelona went into the contest second in La Liga and chasing the leaders, aiming to respond after recent setbacks and keep pressure on Real Madrid, while Girona sat mid-table in 15th place, looking to build momentum and upset a heavyweight rival on their own turf.
The first half started with Barcelona on top, dominating possession and pushing forward, and the pressure paid off in the 58th minute when Pau Cubarsí rose highest from a corner to head Barcelona in front, delighting the away supporters.
Read more: Atlético Madrid hammer Barcelona 4–0 in Copa del Rey
But Girona refused to buckle, and just two minutes later Thomas Lemar fired home from close range to level the score, silencing the visitors and energising the Montilivi crowd with a spirited response.
The momentum swung firmly in Girona’s favour as the second half wore on, with Barcelona lacking cutting edge despite controlling large portions of the ball and creating multiple openings that they failed to convert.
Girona’s relentless pressure paid off in the 86th minute when Fran Beltrán struck the winning goal, sending the home fans wild and completing an impressive comeback in one of the season’s most dramatic Catalan derbies.
Despite late efforts from the visitors to force an equaliser, including corners and set-piece opportunities, Barcelona couldn’t find a way back into the match as Girona’s defence held firm under intense pressure.
Contributed by Emmanuel Lungu
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