In an intense clash on Matchday 18 of La Liga, Girona emerged victorious against Mallorca with a score of 2-1. The opening goal was scored by Viktor Tsygankov in the 24th minute of the first half, as he expertly found the net following a splendid assist from Vitor Reis.
As the game continued into the second half, Vladyslav Vanat increased Girona’s lead by converting a penalty kick in the 62nd minute. Despite Mallorca’s Vedat Muriqi managing to score from 12 yards out just before halftime to narrow the gap in the 45th minute, it was not enough to change the outcome.
Tsygankov’s goal earned him high praise from fans, showcasing his sharp finishing skill that caught the defending team off guard. In the 55th minute, Axel Witsel came close to extending the lead, but his shot ricocheted off the post.
The standout performer for Girona was undoubtedly Vitor Reis, who not only was instrumental in defense but also intercepted two critical passes and cleared six balls from danger. Iván Martín also had an impressive match, completing 55 successful passes and taking two shots on goal.
Mallorca’s head coach, Jagoba Arrasate, opted for a 4-5-1 formation, with Leo Román guarding the net, and a defense line consisting of Pablo Maffeo, Martin Valjent, Antonio Raíllo, and Johan Mojica. In midfield were Manu Morlanes, Samu Costa, Takuma Asano, Sergi Darder, and Jan Virgili, while Vedat Muriqi spearheaded the attack.
On the other side, Girona, led by Miguel Sánchez Muñoz, also employed a 4-5-1 setup with Paulo Gazzaniga between the posts, supported by Arnau Martinez, Vitor Reis, Daley Blind, and Álex Moreno in defense. Their midfield comprised Viktor Tsygankov, Thomas Lemar, Axel Witsel, Iván Martín, and Bryan Gil, with Vladyslav Vanat positioned at the forefront.
The match held at Mallorca’s Estadi Son Moix was officiated by Javier Alberola Rojas.
Following this match, Mallorca will face Rayo Vallecano in their next encounter, while Girona will host Osasuna. Currently, Mallorca sits in 15th place in the league standings with 18 points, tied with Girona who holds the 16th position.
Substitutions for Mallorca
45’ 2T – Manu Morlanes was replaced by Omar Mascarell
63’ 2T – Takuma Asano off for Mateo Joseph, Sergi Darder off for Pablo Torre, and Samu Costa off for Antonio Sánchez
88’ 2T – Pablo Maffeo was substituted by Javier Llabrés
Bookings for Mallorca:
36’ 1T – Samu Costa (Unsporting behavior)
12’ 2T – Sergi Darder (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for Girona
69’ 2T – Thomas Lemar was replaced by Alejandro Francés
74’ 2T – Bryan Gil off for Joel Roca
Booking for Girona:
13’ 2T – Álex Moreno (Unsporting behavior)