In an exciting start to the new La Liga season, Girona, last season's surprise team, managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Real Betis on Thursday. Girona, who finished third last season, faced the challenge of rebuilding their squad after losing key players like Savinho, Artem Dovbyk, and Aleix Garcia during the summer transfer window. This season is especially significant for them as they prepare for their debut in the Champions League.

Real Betis took an early lead when Marc Bartra scored with a powerful header from Nabil Fekir's corner just six minutes into the match. Girona responded strongly, with new signing Abel Ruiz hitting the post at the hour mark. Girona's goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga also made a crucial save, tipping over a shot from Aitor Ruibal in an intense encounter at Betis' Benito Villamarin stadium.

Girona found their equalizer when substitutes Iker Almena and Gabriel Misehouy, a summer signing from Ajax, combined for the latter to score. Betis striker Chimy Avila nearly restored his team's lead, striking the post in a thrilling end to the match. Despite the significant changes in their squad, Girona displayed the same attacking flair that made them a fan favorite last season.

In another match, Athletic Bilbao and Getafe also played out a 1-1 draw. Athletic's Oihan Sancet opened the scoring with a superb long-range finish after 27 minutes. Getafe came close to equalizing multiple times, with Peter Gonzalez hitting the post and Athletic's goalkeeper Alex Padilla making a brilliant save against Carles Alena. Getafe eventually drew level through Nigerian midfielder Chrisantus Uche, who scored on his debut with a header from a corner.

Despite bringing on Nico Williams, a star of Spain's Euro 2024-winning team, Athletic Bilbao could not find a winner. The season promises more excitement with champions Real Madrid kicking off their campaign on Sunday at Real Mallorca, where French superstar Kylian Mbappe is set to make his La Liga debut. Meanwhile, Barcelona, under new coach Hansi Flick, will face a tough test against Valencia on Saturday in Flick's first competitive match in charge.