Real Madrid claimed a record-extending 36th La Liga title on Saturday after Girona fought back to beat Barcelona 4-2, a result that left Carlo Ancelotti’s side with an unassailable lead in the standings.
Real Madrid, who have lost only once in the league this season, hold a 13-point advantage over second-placed Girona while Barcelona dropped to third with four matches remaining.
The win also secured Girona a spot in Europe for the first time after they qualified for next season's Champions League.
A brace from substitute Portu helped the surprise package of the season to humble their Catalan rivals.
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Andreas Christiansen scored in the third minute to give Barca the lead while Girona hit back a minute later with La Liga top-scorer Artem Dovbyk heading in the equaliser.
Robert Lewandowski put the visitors back in front from the penalty spot just before the break.
However, in the 65th minute, in his first action after coming off the bench, Portu netted the equaliser and Miguel Gutierrez scored from a rebound two minutes later to give Girona the lead. A stunning volley from Portu in the 74th minute secured the win.
“It’s incredible to look at your shirt and experience this. There is nothing more beautiful than living this,” an emotional Portu told DAZN with tears rolling down his face.
“I had a thorn in my side with this club. A few years ago, I experienced the other side, which was relegation and I felt very responsible because I played a lot. Today I made amends with the fans and I can smile again.”
(c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2024
