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Rayo Vallecano Defeats Girona 3–1 in LaLiga Opener Amid 90°F Heat and Red Card Drama

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Brian Schaible | Last updated Aug 15, 2025 9:24 PM ET

Rayo Vallecano began their 2025–26 LaLiga EA Sports season with a decisive 3–1 victory over Girona on Friday at Montilivi, overcoming both the opposition and oppressive 90°F heat.

The high temperatures had led Girona to request a postponement, but LaLiga rejected the appeal. To protect the 12,403 fans in attendance, Girona handed out caps, provided free bottled water, and set up additional hydration points around the stadium.

Rayo wasted little time seizing control. In the 18th minute, Jorge de Frutos pounced on a poor clearance from goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga to open the scoring. Two minutes later, Álvaro García doubled the lead with a well struck finish.

Just before halftime, Gazzaniga made a major blunder. While attempting to dribble in his own box, he lost possession and fouled a Rayo attacker. The resulting red card and penalty allowed Isi Palazón to make it 3–0.

Girona battled back in the second half, with Joel Roca scoring in the 57th minute, but the damage was already done.

Manager Iñigo Pérez, speaking in Spanish and later translated, credited his team’s adaptability: “We expected a tough match. It went our way, thanks also to the playing field. We played a good game, but we must consider the conditions. We adapted well to the situations. We found attacking and goal-scoring opportunities thanks to the high press. It’s one of our tools to be able to score.”

Pérez also highlighted the mental boost of the win: “Winning is very positive for the emotional state, but we have to start over for Thursday’s match. I’m happy to win in such a tough stadium.”

For Rayo, it was a perfect start under testing conditions. For Girona, it was a night to quickly move past.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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