Late drama at Montjuïc: Barcelona edges Girona in stoppage time to heat up the Clasico

Match overview

Barcelona secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over their city rivals Girona in La Liga's ninth round, played under a wild Montjuïc night.

The dramatic affair was decided in stoppage time by a lethal header from Ronald Araújo, and the match also saw Hans Flick sent off, ruling him out of the upcoming Clasico against Real Madrid.

Key moments

Pedri opened the scoring in the 13th minute after a swift exchange on the edge of the box, and Axel Witsel equalized for Girona with a clever finish in the 20th minute.

In the second half Barça pressed for a winner as Flick made attacking changes, including Fermín López, whose shot struck the post at 51 minutes. Girona keeper Gazzaniga produced a string of saves for Girona, and a Barca goal was ruled out at 60 due to a foul on Eric Garcia.

Rashford and Yamal continued to threaten, with Rashford testing the keeper and a shot hitting the crossbar in moments of high pressure.

Then, in the 93rd minute, De Jong delivered a sharp cross for Araújo to head home, sparking wild scenes among the home fans. Moments later Flick was shown a red card for protests, leaving Barca to finish with ten men.

Aftermath

Barça move to the top of La Liga temporarily with 22 points, one point ahead of Real Madrid, who play on Sunday. Girona stay on six points, near the bottom. Barca will now face Real Madrid in the Clasico next round.

Punchlines

Punchline 1: If football is art, tonight Barca painted victory with a dramatic Montjuïc moustache on the ball.

Punchline 2: Clasico next, and Real Madrid better bring popcorn—this one served drama with extra stoppage-time sauce.