Madrid, 11 April (H.S.):

Real Madrid's title aspirations suffered a setback in Spain's La Liga as they squandered points in a frustrating 1-1 draw against Girona, handing leaders Barcelona a golden opportunity to extend their dominance.

Federico Valverde fired Real ahead six minutes into the second half with a trademark long-range strike, but the lead evaporated in the 62nd minute when Thomas Lemar unleashed a sublime equaliser for Girona.

Barcelona now top the table with 76 points, six clear of Real Madrid—who have played an extra match—positioning the Catalans to potentially stretch their advantage to nine points.

Real fielded a star-studded lineup featuring Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham ahead of a pivotal upcoming clash demanding redemption from a prior defeat. Yet, the hosts faltered: dominant in first-half possession but toothless in chance creation against Girona's resolute defence and counterattacking threat.

Girona's Ezzeddin Ounahi tested Andriy Lunin with a thunderous shot, brilliantly parried by the Ukrainian keeper. Post-equaliser, Real's attacks grew hasty and disjointed, as Girona's disciplined rearguard repelled further probes.

Fan frustration boiled over at the final whistle, underscoring the gravity of this slip. With Barcelona looming large, Real's championship hopes hang by a thread.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar