Barcelona Suffer Major Setback in Title Defence After 2–1 Defeat at Girona

Defending La Liga champions Barcelona suffered a damaging 2–1 defeat away to Girona on Monday night, a result that leaves them two points behind Real Madrid in the Spanish title race.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid had earlier defeated Real Sociedad on Saturday to climb to the summit, piling pressure on Hansi Flick’s side. Barcelona, however, failed to respond in a fiercely contested Catalan derby at Montilivi.

Missed Chances Prove Costly for Barcelona

Barcelona created several clear opportunities but were unable to convert their dominance into goals.

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal missed a crucial penalty after Dani Olmo was brought down inside the area by Daley Blind. Yamal struck the post from the spot, a moment that would later prove pivotal.

Despite the setback, Barca eventually broke the deadlock in the 59th minute. Defender Pau Cubarsí headed home from a precise Jules Koundé cross to give the visitors the lead.

Raphinha also struck the upright earlier, while Ferran Torres and Yamal both spurned promising chances in an open first half.

Girona Mount Impressive Comeback

Girona responded swiftly. Thomas Lemar capitalized on a defensive lapse, slipping past Eric Garcia before finishing from close range to level the score.

Momentum shifted decisively in the hosts’ favor. Barcelona goalkeeper Joan García was forced into a string of spectacular saves, denying Ivan Martin and Vladyslav Vanat with a remarkable double stop before blocking Joel Roca’s effort.

With three minutes remaining, Fran Beltrán completed the comeback, drilling a composed finish from the edge of the area to send the home crowd into celebration.

Girona were reduced to 10 men late on after Roca fouled Yamal in stoppage time, but Barcelona were unable to capitalize.

Title Race Pressure Mounts

The defeat represents a significant blow to Barcelona’s title defence. The Catalans now trail Real Madrid by two points and face mounting pressure as the season enters its decisive phase.

The result also comes amid Barcelona’s recent complaint to the Spanish Football Federation regarding refereeing inconsistencies — a backdrop that intensified frustration among players and staff following Monday’s match.

With crucial fixtures ahead, Flick’s side must quickly regroup if they are to reclaim top spot in La Liga.

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Frequently Asked Questions
How did Barcelona lose to Girona?

Barcelona took the lead through Pau Cubarsí but conceded twice in the second half, with Thomas Lemar equalizing and Fran Beltrán scoring the winner.

Did Lamine Yamal miss a penalty?

Yes, Yamal struck the post from the penalty spot after Dani Olmo was fouled in the box.

How does this affect the La Liga title race?

Barcelona now trail Real Madrid by two points at the top of the table.