October 18, (THEWILL) — Ronald Araújo delivered a dramatic stoppage-time winner for Barcelona in their 2-1 victory over Girona on Saturday, sending Hansi Flick’s side to the top of La Liga.
The defender, deployed in an emergency attacking role during the closing stages, converted Frenkie de Jong’s cross with a clinical finish to end the hosts’ two-match losing streak.
Pedri had given Barcelona an early lead at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, calmly slotting past Paulo Gazzaniga after weaving through the penalty area in the 13th minute.
However, Axel Witsel stunned the home crowd with a spectacular overhead kick from a corner, levelling the contest with Girona’s first attempt on goal.
The visitors then carved out four excellent opportunities before half-time, with Wojciech Szczęsny denying Vladyslav Vanat and Portu striking the post, whilst Bryan Gil wasted another clear chance.
Barcelona dominated possession after the interval but struggled to break down Girona’s resolute defence.
Pau Cubarsí thought he had scored from a corner just past the hour, only for the referee to rule out the goal following a foul by Eric García on Hugo Rincón.
VAR chose not to overturn the decision, leaving the home supporters furious.
Marcus Rashford repeatedly tested Gazzaniga in the second period, having earlier crashed a free kick against the crossbar before the break.
Substitute Fermín López also came close after his half-time introduction, registering four attempts including one that struck the woodwork.
With Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres unavailable through injury, Flick turned to Araújo in attack during the final minutes.
The gamble proved decisive when the Uruguayan poked home from close range in the 93rd minute, giving Barcelona all three points before Real Madrid face Getafe on Sunday.
The victory lifted La Blaugrana above its rivals and provided crucial momentum after recent setbacks at Sevilla.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
