High-flying Girona stunned FC Barcelona 4-2 to claim top spot in LaLiga on Sunday, condemning Xavi Hernandez's team to their second league defeat of the season.
Artem Dovbyk and Miguel Gutierrez got on the scoresheet for Girona in the first half, either side of Robert Lewandowski's equaliser. Valery Fernandez and Cristhian Stuani scored two more goals in the second half with Ilkay Gundogan netting another for Barca.
Girona, who are unbeaten away LaLiga matches this season, top the standings with 41 points from 16 games. They moved ahead of Real Madrid on 39 points after Carlo Ancelotti's side drew 1-1 against Real Betis on Saturday.
Barcelona are fourth on 34 points, level with third-placed Atletico Madrid who have a game in hand.
"Girona have a lot of merit in what they are doing. They are in the lead, even more so today. They've got seven points more than us and that's well deserved," Xavi said.
"It was an even game. If Barca won, we would also say it's fair. I think we shot 31 times. Maybe the errors in defence have taken their toll on us.
"I think we have to continue on this path, do not doubt or tremble, continue working.
"It's a Barça under construction and that means taking steps forward and backwards."
Barcelona had 31 shots with 11 of them on target, but Girona keeper Paulo Gazzaniga made some good saves to deny the home side.
"This Girona side have a soul and believe they can hurt their opponents," coach Michel said.
"We knew that (Barca) were going to press hard but if we were able to make the first two passes, we would stand a chance."
Barcelona, will travel to Royal Antwerp on Wednesday in the Champions League, next visit mid-table Valencia in the league on Saturday. Girona will face 12th placed Alaves on December 18.