Gazzaniga Stands Firm as VAR Decides Six-Pointer Between Girona and Alavés

À Éviter Score Futmetrix: 23/100. When the balance teetered on a knife's edge, VAR's intervention and Paulo Gazzaniga's gloved heroics separated a desperate Girona side from Alavés in a match where every detail carried championship weight.

Tsygankov Strikes Early, Gazzaniga Holds the Line

Girona wasted no time announcing their intent. In the 16th minute, Viktor Tsygankov finished cleanly from Bryan Gil's assist, establishing what appeared a comfortable cushion. But Alavés arrived with relentless intensity: 14 shots total, five on target. Girona's backline faced a bombardment where only Paulo Gazzaniga's world-class intervention—five stunning saves—kept the scoreline intact against an xG of 1.84.

VAR Rewrites the Script

In the 55th minute, as Alavés appeared destined for parity, VAR intervened. Antonio Blanco's goal was ruled out in a decision that split the crowd. This moment proved monumental in a crunch match where momentum swings defined everything. Girona breathed again; Alavés deflated.

Balance Restored, Three Points Salvaged

Iván Martín orchestrated Girona's midfield with commanding authority, providing the defensive balance that allowed Tsygankov's creativity to flourish. Though Alavés generated superior chances, Girona converted the one that mattered. This victory delivers three lifeline points in their relegation battle, while Alavés trudges away with a phantom goal and the sting of dominance without reward.