Barcelona Edge Girona 2-1 as Araujo Strikes Late to End Losing Run
Ronald Araujo was the unlikely hero as Barcelona snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Girona at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, sending the defending champions to the top of La Liga.
Brought on in the final minutes, the Uruguayan centre-back was pushed forward in search of a winner — and he delivered. In the 92nd minute, Araujo latched onto a clever Frenkie de Jong pass across goal, steering the ball home to end Barça’s two-game losing streak and spark jubilant celebrations in Catalonia.
Pedri Opens the Scoring, Girona Hit Back with Witsel’s Stunning Overhead
Barcelona began the match with intensity and confidence, controlling possession and pressing Girona deep into their own half. Their dominance was rewarded when Pedri fired a powerful low shot from the edge of the box that struck the post and bounced in, giving the hosts a deserved lead.
However, Girona responded brilliantly. Against the run of play, Axel Witsel equalised with a spectacular overhead kick following a corner — silencing the home crowd and reminding everyone why Girona continue to be one of La Liga’s surprise packages.
Marcus Rashford Threatens but Fails to Convert
On loan from Manchester United, Marcus Rashford looked dangerous throughout the match, creating multiple chances and showcasing the pace that troubled Girona’s defence all evening.
Rashford’s curling free-kick rattled the crossbar midway through the first half, inches away from restoring Barcelona’s advantage. In the second period, the English forward spurned a golden opportunity, side-footing a low cross wide from close range — a miss that nearly cost his side crucial points.
Late Drama and Hansi Flick’s Red Card
As the game entered stoppage time locked at 1-1, Barcelona pushed forward desperately. Manager Hansi Flick, sensing the urgency, made a bold decision by moving Ronald Araujo into attack — a gamble that paid off sensationally when the defender turned match-winner in the 92nd minute.
However, moments later, the celebrations were marred by controversy. Flick was shown a red card after reacting angrily to the fourth official’s indication of only four minutes of added time. The German manager’s dismissal means he will miss Barcelona’s next league match, a huge El Clásico showdown against Real Madrid on 26 October at 15:15 GMT.
Barcelona Back on Top — and Back in Form
The victory takes Barcelona back to the summit of La Liga, leapfrogging both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. After back-to-back defeats, this win restores belief in Flick’s project and underlines the resilience of a team still adjusting to a mix of youth and experience.
Pedri’s return to form, De Jong’s midfield control, and Araujo’s late heroics will all boost confidence ahead of their next fixtures. Despite the tense finale, Barcelona’s fighting spirit could prove vital in the title race.
Girona’s Brave Effort Falls Short
For Girona, the result was harsh given their disciplined defending and opportunistic equaliser. Axel Witsel’s wonder goal and Girona’s organized counterattacking display once again showed why they continue to punch above their weight in Spain’s top flight.
Still, failing to hold on for a draw against one of Europe’s elite will sting for Michel’s men, who remain in the hunt for European qualification spots.
Match Summary
- Final Score: Barcelona 2–1 Girona
- Scorers: Pedri (BAR, 17’), Witsel (GIR, 34’), Araujo (BAR, 90+2’)
- Venue: Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, Barcelona
- Competition: La Liga, Matchday 10
- Manager Red Card: Hansi Flick (Barcelona)
- Next Match: Real Madrid vs Barcelona – El Clásico, 26 October
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