Catalonian Girona completed another stage of preparation for the new La Liga season by playing a friendly match against Basque Alaves. The match, held as part of a pre-season sparring session, ended in a dramatic defeat for the Catalans. Despite active play and created chances, the team could not hold the draw until the final whistle.
Dramatic finish to the sparring match
Girona dominated most episodes of the match, creating several real opportunities to score against the opponent. However, the execution was at a low level, and the Catalans failed to score. The fate of the duel was decided by a single incident that occurred in the 90th minute of the game.
Alaves player Alvaro Garcia caught the opposing goalkeeper off guard and successfully scored a "top corner" goal, bringing victory to his team. This goal proved decisive, as the score remained level until that moment.
Participation of Ukrainian footballers
Two representatives of the Ukrainian national team started for Girona — goalkeeper Vladyslav Krapivtsov and forward Vladyslav Vanat. Their participation became one of the key moments for observers following the careers of Ukrainians in the Spanish championship.
Vladyslav Krapivtsov played the first half, after which he was replaced in goal by Sergi Puch. Vladyslav Vanat left the field in the first half of the match, failing to have a decisive influence on the outcome.
Pishchur's chances and Tsygankov's absence
In the second half, another Ukrainian legionnaire entered the game — the two-meter forward Oleksandr Pishchur. The striker came close to putting his team ahead. After a dangerous header, the ball hit the post, but he failed to score.
Ukrainian national team midfielder Viktor Tsygankov did not even make the squad for this match. According to sources, tension arose between the player and Girona's management due to the midfielder's desire to change clubs and remain playing in the top division.
Decision regarding Vanat
It was previously reported that Girona made a tough decision regarding Vladyslav Vanat's future. This decision could affect his further career and choice of the next club. It is expected that details of a possible transfer will be known soon.
