BARCELONA, Spain (BN24) — Barcelona climbed to the top of La Liga on Saturday night after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Girona, sealed by a stoppage-time winner from an unlikely hero, central defender Ronald Araujo.
In a bold tactical move, Araujo was introduced in the 82nd minute and sent forward to bolster Barcelona’s attack. The decision paid off spectacularly when, in the 92nd minute, Frenkie de Jong slid a low ball across the six-yard box and Araujo stretched to guide it into the back of the net. The late goal ended Barcelona’s two-match losing streak and sparked wild celebrations at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
Barcelona had taken an early lead in the 26th minute through Pedri, who found space just outside the penalty area and drilled a low shot that bounced off the inside of the post before rippling the net. The goal gave the hosts deserved momentum, but Girona found an equaliser against the run of play.
Axel Witsel, rising highest at a corner, directed a firm header beyond goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen to bring Girona level in the 33rd minute — a frustrating blow for Barcelona, who had dominated possession and created the better chances in the opening half.
Marcus Rashford, on loan from Manchester United, was Barcelona’s most threatening outlet throughout the match. He came close to scoring with a powerful free-kick that struck the crossbar in the first half. Later, he squandered a golden opportunity from close range, steering a low cross wide when it seemed easier to score.
Girona, who arrived in good form, held firm for much of the second half and threatened on the break, but Barcelona kept pressing as time ran out. The breakthrough finally came in stoppage time when Araujo’s striker instincts delivered all three points.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, however, will miss his side’s next league match, the highly anticipated El Clásico against Real Madrid, after being shown a red card for his angry reaction when the fourth official indicated just four minutes of stoppage time.
Flick had been animated throughout the final stages and was visibly incensed by several refereeing decisions. His dismissal adds further drama ahead of the clash with Real Madrid, where Barcelona will now enter as league leaders following the dramatic win.
With the victory, Barcelona moved two points clear at the summit of La Liga, while Girona, who had been looking to maintain their surprise title challenge, slipped back into fourth.
The result not only reasserted Barcelona’s championship ambitions but also demonstrated their growing resilience under Flick and the willingness to take tactical risks when needed.
Araujo’s late strike may prove to be a turning point in their season.
