After five league wins in a row, Girona have once again dropped points: The Catalans drew 1-1 with Bilbao, who scored on the counter-attack to equalize
Real Madrid’s comfortable win in Cadiz on Sunday evening put Girona under pressure in the race for first place. The Catalans needed a win against Bilbao to defend top spot. But there was a setback for the Blanquivermells even before kick-off: top scorer Dovbyk was missing due to muscular problems. Stuani made the starting eleven instead – the only change compared to the 2-1 win at Rayo Vallecano.
The substitute was also involved in the home side’s most dangerous moves in the first half. In a period of pressure between the tenth and 20th minute, the veteran first headed over the goal (14th) and then failed to beat Unai Simon (18th).
Herrera’s goal rescinded
Although Girona gradually took control after a sleepy opening period, Bilbao created the better chances in the first 45 minutes: Guruzeta missed the early lead with a rushed finish (5′) and de Marcos shot just over (23′). This was almost punished: However, as Herrera’s goal was rightly rescinded due to an offside position by preparer Savio (27), the teams went into the half-time break goalless.
Ten minutes after the restart, the home fans at the Estadi Montilivi were able to celebrate a regular goal: Savio’s cross slipped through to Tsygankov, who scored into the near corner.
Inaki Williams scores with aplomb
However, the lead lasted less than a quarter of an hour as the Blanquivermells allowed themselves to be caught out. The ball ended up with Inaki Williams via Vesga and Sancet, who cleverly crossed for Aleix Garcia and then finished off with a composed finish (67′).
In the remaining minutes, it was not the hosts who pressed for their sixth league win in a row, but Athletic Club went on the attack. However, Ernesto Valverde’s side were not rewarded and the score remained 1-1.
The draw meant that the Catalans lost the lead in the table to Real Madrid. Bilbao, meanwhile, remained fifth in the table and failed to close the gap on Barcelona – Barça had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano.
Both teams will be challenged again on Saturday: Girona host Valencia (2pm) and the Basques host Vallecano (4.15pm).
