BARCELONA: Table-toppers Barcelona failed to extend their lead to 15 points over defending champions Real Madrid after the 11th-placed Girona held the home side for a goalless draw.
The title-chasing side now sits 13 points clear of second-placed Real Madrid with 10 more matches to go.
Barcelona were not at their best in a Catalan derby as Xavi Hernandez’s side appeared to be still reeling from the aftershocks of their Clasico defeat by Madrid last week in the Copa del Rey.
Mid-table Girona battled strongly and forced the leaders to drop points at home, for the first time in their home after three years.
Barcelona kept a clean sheet for the 21st time in the top flight, but they were unable to fully profit from Real Madrid’s slip-up as they sought to win La Liga for the first time since 2019.
Robert Lewandowski came close to opening the scoring for his side just four minutes into the game, after being set up by Fati, but fired it onto the top of the net.
Barcelona, once again came close to scoring the opener when Girona’s defender Santi Bueno almost netted an own goal but goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga responded well, dived and diverted the ball to safety and barred the hosts from taking the lead.
The goalkeeper made a brilliant save at his near post from Raphinha before clawing away a Ronald Araujo attempt from the resultant corner.
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