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Match Report: Controversial spot kicks lead to derby defeat

RCD Espanyol lose 0-2 to Girona FC at home

RCD Espanyol lost 0-2 to Girona FC in a Catalan derby that was not short on controversy, as the visitors scored twice from contentious penalties to take the three points at the RCDE Stadium. In a game of intensity and back-and-forth action, the decisive factor proved to be two spot kicks at the end of each half, respectively.

Both teams played with freedom and daring true to their style, albeit without clear-cut chances in the early going. RCD Espanyol were up against a Girona side who have improved considerably in recent weeks and have regained the confidence in possession football that their manager demands. Meanwhile, Los Pericos employed a more direct strategy, determined to exploit the space behind the visitors' defence.

With no clear-cut chances at either end, the game entered its decisive phase in the final stretch of the first half. Marko Dmitrović was called upon to make a series of saves, beginning with a spectacular stop from a Lemar shot.

Roberto Fernández had a penalty call not given in his favour, which made the decision in stoppage time to award a spot kick to Girona in similar circumstances somewhat inexplicable. Omar El Hilali was he man punished. From the penalty, Dimitrovic made a save to deny Vanat, but VAR ordered a retake due to his foot having been slightly beyond the goal line. From the second attempt, the Espanyol goalkeeper was inches away from reaching the Ukrainian's shot.

After the break, the home team came back with renewed energy, especially with Jofre dominating the attack from the moment he entered the pitch, creating chances and troubling goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga.

With Jofre active, Pol Lozano intense, and Roberto fighting for every ball around the area, it seemed like a reward was imminent. However, another foul on Roberto raised the decibel level at the RCDE Stadium as the decision once again went against Los Pericos.

In second half stoppage time, a counter-attack by Asprilla ended with the Girona player on the ground inside the area. No replay seemed to warrant a penalty, but it was awarded. Vanat then converted from the spot, as RCD Espanyol were left frustrated in the Friday night fixture.