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Girona, Real Betis Draw 1-1 in LaLiga Opener as Athletic Bilbao, Getafe Share Points

Posted : 16 August 2024

 

In the opening match of the new LaLiga season on Thursday, Girona, last season's surprise team, secured a thrilling 1-1 draw against Real Betis. Despite a strong third-place finish last season, Girona faced challenges after losing key players like Savinho, Artem Dovbyk, and Aleix Garcia over the summer. Manager Michel Sanchez had to rebuild the squad as the team prepared for their debut Champions League campaign.

 

Real Betis took an early lead with a powerful header from Marc Bartra, who scored from a Nabil Fekir corner just six minutes into the game. Girona responded with a close effort from new signing Abel Ruiz, who hit the post, while Betis' goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga made a crucial save to deny Aitor Ruibal. The match at Betis' Benito Villamarin stadium was a captivating contest with end-to-end action.

 

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Girona equalized through a combination of substitutes, with Iker Almena setting up Dutch newcomer Gabriel Misehouy, who finished well to level the score. Both teams had further opportunities; Betis striker Chimy Avila struck the post with a powerful shot, but neither side could find a winner in the closing moments. Girona, in only their fifth top-flight season, demonstrated the attacking flair that characterized their impressive performance last year.

 

Earlier in the day, Athletic Bilbao and Getafe also ended their opening match in a 1-1 draw. Bilbao's Oihan Sancet scored a long-range goal to put his team ahead, but Getafe responded after the break with Chrisantus Uche netting his debut goal. Despite a strong performance from Athletic, including a notable appearance by Euro 2024 star Nico Williams, they could not find a second goal. The season continues with Real Madrid's opener on Sunday, featuring Kylian Mbappe's anticipated LaLiga debut, while Barcelona faces Valencia on Saturday with Hansi Flick making his competitive debut as their new coach.

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