Two teams with survival on the line played out a dramatic 1-1 draw at Vallecas, where 39-year-old Cristhian Stuani once again proved he is Girona’s eternal savior.
“If you can’t win, at least don’t lose” — that motto, often embraced by sides fighting for their lives late in the season, took on special meaning for Girona. In a frantic finish, the Uruguayan popped up with a header in the 89th minute to snatch a precious point, one that could well secure their La Liga status.
The match seemed destined for a different outcome when Alemao broke the deadlock in the 86th minute, a goal that appeared to seal Rayo Vallecano’s safety. But then Míchel turned to his secret weapon — Stuani, who needed just six minutes on the pitch to make an impact. The point also mathematically condemned Real Oviedo to relegation.
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Both managers, Iñigo Pérez and Míchel, are known for attacking football, and they didn’t disappoint. Rayo, still buzzing from European qualification, fielded a strong starting XI despite resting Fran Pérez and missing the injured Ilias and Isi. They dominated possession early but struggled to test Girona’s defense.
The first half passed quietly, save for two clear chances. Joel Roca, after a Rayo turnover, dribbled past goalkeeper Batalla only to see Óscar Valentín make a goal-line clearance. Just before the break, Camello raced through on goal but Gazzaniga came out with a decisive low save.
The second half followed a similar pattern until the final minutes. Unai López’s shot deflected off Alemao to give Rayo the lead, sending Vallecas into ecstasy. Yet four minutes later, another No. 9 — Stuani, hardened by a thousand battles — rose highest to meet a corner and restore parity, silencing the home crowd and reigniting Girona’s survival hopes.
Statistical Breakdown: Rayo Vallecano 1-1 Girona
With three matches left, two of them at Montilivi, Girona can now finish the job in front of their own fans. As for Rayo, their top-flight status is all but assured — barring an extraordinary turn of events.
