Girona 2–1 Barcelona: Beltrán’s Late Winner Stuns Barça in La Liga Catalan Derby
Girona FC pulled off a memorable home victory as they beat FC Barcelona 2–1 in a dramatic La Liga clash at the Estadi Municipal de Montilivi on 16 February 2026. The result dealt a major blow to Barcelona’s title ambitions and saw Real Madrid reclaim top spot in the league.
First Half: Missed Opportunity and Early Drama
Barcelona created some of the better chances in the first half and looked set to go ahead, but their hopes were rocked when Lamine Yamal missed a penalty, the shot hitting the post at a crucial moment as Barça failed to take control.
The Blaugrana’s best chance from the spot went begging, leaving the door open for Girona to pounce in the second period.
Second Half: Cubarsí, Lemar and Beltrán on the Scoresheet
Just after halftime, Pau Cubarsí broke the deadlock with a well‑placed header from Jules Koundé’s cross, giving Barcelona a deserved 1–0 lead in the 59th minute.
However, Girona hit back swiftly. Only three minutes later, Thomas Lemar capitalised on a dangerous delivery inside the box to level the score at 1–1.
As the clock ticked toward full time, Fran Beltrán seized the moment to fire Girona ahead in the 86th minute, placing a low, decisive shot into the bottom corner — a strike that ultimately settled the contest.
Closing Stages and Controversy
Late in stoppage time, Girona’s Joel Roca was sent off, reducing the hosts to 10 men as Barcelona pushed aggressively for an equaliser. Despite pressure and attempts in added time, Barcelona could not find a second goal, and Girona held on for a historic win.
Tactical Takeaways
Barcelona dominated possession but lacked efficiency in front of goal.
Girona showed resilience, taking their chances and defending well under pressure.
The result means Barcelona have now lost back-to-back matches in all competitions — their first such stretch this season.
What This Means
The defeat leaves Barcelona two points behind Real Madrid at the top of the La Liga table after Real Madrid’s earlier victory. It also adds pressure on coach Hansi Flick’s side as the title race tightens.
➡ Check how Barcelona fared earlier this week in the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atlético Madrid.
➡ For official La Liga standings and statistics, visit the La Liga official site.
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