LaLiga: FC Barcelona trudge to a hard-fought victory against Girona FC
Barça secure a narrow 1-0 win in a closely contested Catalan derby
Ousmane Dembélé's 29th-minute strike proves to be the difference
FC Barcelona registered a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Girona FC at the Spotify Camp Nou in LaLiga on Saturday. The Catalan derby was a closely contested affair, with both teams creating chances but Barcelona ultimately securing the three points thanks to a first-half strike from Ousmane Dembélé.
The match got off to a lively start with both teams looking to take the initiative. Barcelona dominated possession, but it was Girona who had the first clear-cut chance of the game. In the 10th minute, Cristhian Stuani found himself through on goal but fired wide of the far post.
Barça responded well and began to create chances of their own. Raphinha was particularly lively and came close to opening the scoring in the 20th minute with a curling effort that went just wide. The Brazilian continued to be a threat and played a key role in Barcelona's goal ten minutes later.
Raphinha drove down the right flank and delivered a low cross into the area. Ousmane Dembélé was on hand to tap home from close range and give Barca the lead. The goal settled the home side, who began to control the game.
Girona, to their credit, did not let the setback affect them. They continued to push forward and looked dangerous going forward. Borja García came close to equalizing in the 35th minute with a shot that was well saved by Marc-André ter Stegen.
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