La Liga: Barcelona dominate Catalan Derby with 4-1 victory over Girona

FC Barcelona secured a commanding 4-1 win over Girona in the Catalan derby at the Estadio Municipal de Montilivi, reclaiming regional bragging rights and exacting revenge for last season’s defeats.

Barcelona, who suffered back-to-back losses against Girona last season, started the game strongly, pressing high and controlling possession.

Their efforts paid off in the 30th minute when Lamine Yamal capitalised on a defensive mistake to give Barça the lead.

Just seven minutes later, Yamal doubled the advantage, slotting home a loose ball with precision, taking his La Liga tally to three goals and four assists—leading the league in goal contributions.

Girona had a brief hope of pulling one back just before halftime when they appealed for a handball against Barcelona’s Inigo Martinez, but the referee dismissed the claim after a VAR check. Barcelona went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.

After the restart, Dani Olmo’s powerful strike made it 3-0, and Pedri added a fourth with a sublime finish following a series of intricate passes.

Girona managed to score a consolation goal through Cristhian Stuani late in the game, but Barcelona’s dominance was already cemented.

The win, however, was slightly marred by Ferran Torres’ straight red card. Despite this, Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick praised his side’s cohesion and intensity.

“We’re playing with confidence. Our pressing was intense from the start, and we deserved this win,” said Flick, who has maintained a perfect record with five wins in five games.

Girona coach Michel admitted his side was second-best. “Barcelona were great, much better than us. We did well, but they were just on another level today,” he said.

The win sees Barcelona remain at the top of the La Liga standings, continuing their flawless start to the season.

By: Rabbi Adu Agyei