Girona wrapped up 2024 with a dominant 3-0 victory over relegation-threatened Real Valladolid on Friday, breaking a six-game winless streak across all competitions. Goals from David Lopez, Abel Ruiz, and Arnaut Danjuma ensured the hosts earned a much-needed three points, propelling them to eighth place in LaLiga with 25 points.
For Valladolid, the defeat further deepened their struggles, leaving them second from bottom and four points adrift of safety heading into the new year.
Match Highlights
First Half: Girona Take Control
Girona established dominance early, with relentless pressure and attacking intent:
- David Lopez opened the scoring just past the half-hour mark. His deflected header from a Miguel Gutierrez free-kick soared into the top corner, marking a deserved lead for the home side.
- Eight minutes later, Abel Ruiz doubled Girona’s advantage. The forward nodded in a pinpoint cross from Gutierrez, who delivered another assist in his 100th appearance for the club.
Valladolid offered little resistance, with Mario Martin forcing Girona’s goalkeeper, Paulo Gazzaniga, into a single save in the first half.
Second Half: Sealing the Victory
Girona continued to dictate play in the second half, creating numerous chances:
- Arnaut Danjuma secured the win in the 81st minute, calmly slotting home a first-time effort. This marked Danjuma’s first goal since August, providing a timely boost to his confidence.
Valladolid rarely threatened and failed to muster any meaningful response, further solidifying their poor run of form.
Data Debrief: Girona’s Total Dominance
Girona’s performance was one of complete control, reflected in the match statistics:
- Girona attempted 23 shots, their highest tally in a LaLiga game this season, with an expected goals (xG) total of 2.49.
- In stark contrast, Valladolid managed just 0.02 xG, underlining their inability to create meaningful opportunities.
- Paulo Gazzaniga had a quiet evening, with Valladolid’s only shot on target coming from Mario Martin’s long-range effort.
This victory not only halted Girona’s winless streak but also showcased their potential to climb higher in the table if they maintain this level of performance.
Key Performances
1. Miguel Gutierrez – The Creator
Gutierrez was instrumental in Girona’s success, providing two assists to mark his 100th appearance for the club. His ability to deliver precise set-pieces and crosses was crucial in breaking down Valladolid’s defense.
2. Abel Ruiz – Clinical Finisher
Ruiz’s close-range header highlighted his poacher’s instinct, as he capitalized on Gutierrez’s perfect delivery to double Girona’s lead.
3. Arnaut Danjuma – A Timely Return to Form
Danjuma’s late goal capped off a solid performance, ending his personal goal drought and adding further gloss to the scoreline.
What This Win Means for Girona
Boost in Confidence
Girona’s commanding display serves as a morale boost, ending their six-game winless run and sending them into the new year on a positive note.
Climbing the Table
The victory lifts Girona to eighth place with 25 points, keeping them in contention for a potential European spot if they can sustain this form.
Hope for the New Year
Michel will be optimistic that this result marks the start of a resurgence, particularly as Girona displayed the attacking fluency and defensive solidity that defined their success last season.
Valladolid’s Struggles Deepen
Woeful Away Form
Valladolid’s poor away record continued as they failed to register a win in Girona since 1975, further underlining their issues on the road.
Relegation Threat Looms
With just one win in their last 11 away games, Valladolid remain second from bottom and will need a drastic turnaround to avoid relegation.
Conclusion
Girona’s 3-0 victory over Real Valladolid was a statement of intent, as they ended their winless streak with a dominant performance. Goals from Lopez, Ruiz, and Danjuma, coupled with a stellar showing from Miguel Gutierrez, ensured the hosts took all three points in style.
For Valladolid, the defeat highlighted their attacking frailties and defensive lapses, leaving them precariously placed heading into 2025. Girona, meanwhile, will hope this performance signals a turning point as they aim to climb further up the LaLiga table.
FAQs
1. Who scored Girona’s goals against Valladolid?
The goals were scored by David Lopez, Abel Ruiz, and Arnaut Danjuma.
2. How did Miguel Gutierrez perform in the match?
Gutierrez delivered two assists, marking a standout performance in his 100th appearance for Girona.
3. What does this win mean for Girona in the LaLiga table?
The victory moves Girona to eighth place with 25 points.
4. How did Valladolid perform?
Valladolid struggled throughout, managing just one shot on target and recording an expected goals (xG) of 0.02.
5. What is Valladolid’s current league position?
Valladolid remain second from bottom, four points away from safety.
