Tsygankovs Dramatic Double Lifts Girona Over Real Sociedad, Easing Relegation Concerns

Girona Stuns Real Sociedad With Late Comeback

Early Chances for Real Sociedad

Real Sociedad had only found the net five times in the first half of their league matches this season, yet they almost took the lead within the opening 90 seconds. Takefusa Kubo, receiving a cross from Ander Barrenetxea, sent his shot over the crossbar.

Remiro Keeps Sociedad in the Game

The home side maintained their attacking pressure, but it was Alex Remiro, the goalkeeper for Sociedad, who registered the first significant save in the 21st minute. He leaped to his right to deflect a curling shot from Viktor Tsygankov around the post.

Breakthrough for Sociedad

Despite struggling to convert their attacking intent into scoring opportunities, Sociedad finally broke the deadlock ten minutes before halftime. Captain Igor Zubeldia played a precise through ball from his own half, finding the forward line in stride. After three controlled touches, the opening goal was buried low past Paulo Gazzaniga. Sociedad comfortably held their lead into halftime, marking only their second occasion this season in LaLiga where they went into the break ahead.

Girona’s Response in the Second Half

Girona emerged from halftime with renewed energy, aggressively seeking an equalizer. Both skipper Arnau Martinez and Azzedine Ounahi missed the target with their attempts.

Late Equalizer for Girona

Just 15 minutes from the end, Girona seized an unexpected opportunity to level the score. Ounahi received a long ball and delivered a perfectly weighted cross to Tsygankov, who deftly lifted the shot over Remiro for his second goal of the season.

Rapid Turnaround for Girona

Just nine minutes later, Girona completed their remarkable comeback. Following a surging run into the penalty area, a low cross found Tsygankov again, whose clever backheel tricked Remiro and found the bottom corner. Real Sociedad was taken aback and could not mount a response to the sudden shift in momentum. This marked their third consecutive league defeat, leaving them in 14th place on the table. Conversely, Girona climbed above Mallorca, reaching 17th after securing their second victory in 17 away matches in LaLiga.

Player of the Match

Man of the Match: Viktor Tsygankov (Girona).