Girona and Betis tie in La Liga opener

Spanish surprising package last season Girona rallied to draw 1-1 at Real Betis on Thursday, the first day of La Liga. Barcelona finished third, but Michel Sanchez had to rebuild after losing Savinho, Artem Dovbyk, and Aleix Garcia in the summer before their Champions League debut. After six minutes, Marc Bartra headed home Nabil Fekir’s corner to put Betis ahead. Girona newcomer An exciting match at Betis’ Benito Villamarin stadium saw Abel Ruiz hit the post on the hour and Aitor Ruibal’s shot saved by Paulo Gazzaniga.

After two substitutes, Girona equalized when Iker Almena set up Gabriel Misehouy, who came from Ajax this summer. Betis attacker Chimy Avila hit the post with a powerful shot as both clubs came close in the final. Despite considerable squad changes, Michel’s Girona showed hints of the thrilling attacking football that captivated fans last season in only their fifth top division season. The season began with another 1-1 tie between Athletic Bilbao and Getafe.

After 27 minutes, Los Leones midfielder Oihan Sancet scored from distance at San Mames. After the break, Getafe had chances to equalize, but Peter Gonzalez struck the post and Athletic goalkeeper Alex Padilla saved superbly from Carles Alena. Chrisantus Uche’s header from a corner equalized for Jose Bordalas’ side in his Getafe debut. Copa del Rey champions Athletic failed to score after Ernesto Valverde substituted winger Nico Williams, who helped Spain win Euro 2024.

Champions Kylian Mbappe, due to make his La Liga debut, will help Real Madrid open their season at Real Mallorca on Sunday. Barcelona meet Valencia on Saturday in Hansi Flick’s competitive debut as manager.