Barcelona looked poised for another frustrating outing despite taking an early lead through Pedri, who linked beautifully with Lamine Yamal before finishing calmly in the 13th minute.
Girona responded swiftly through Axel Witsel’s acrobatic equaliser, with both sides later striking the woodwork in a thrilling, end-to-end contest.
Coming off back-to-back defeats in different competitions, Hansi Flick’s men seemed destined to settle for a draw butAraujo had other ideas in stoppage time.
Pushed forward as an emergency striker, the Uruguayan defender delivered the decisive goal to seal a crucial victory for Barcelona.
Speaking afterward, Araujo admitted the role wasn’t entirely unfamiliar, recalling that he had played as a forward during his early footballing days.
“We knew we were coming off two tough defeats, but with hunger and hard work, we knew we could get the win today,” he told Mundo Deportivo. “After a win, everything changes and you work differently.”
Reflecting on his rare appearance up front, Araujo shared with a smile.
“Everyone knows I used to play as a striker. I think if I played as a striker, I could score a lot more goals (laughs). When the coach asked me, I didn’t hesitate to say yes.
“When I got there to put on the shirt, I said, ‘If I go on, I’ll score,’ and everyone laughed afterwards when I did. I work to be able to play for the team, so I’m happy about that.”
That goal was Araujo’s second in La Liga this season and the former Boston River man will draw plenty of confidence from it heading into next weekend’s blockbuster trip to the Santiago Bernabeu where Real Madrid will be laying in wait.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
