It is shaping up to the story of the season in Europe as plucky little Girona maintain their lead at the top of the Spanish LaLiga, leaving the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in their wake.

Monday’s 3-0 win over Alaves leaves Girona two points clear Real at the top of the table having won 14 of their 17 games to date, drawing two and with just the single defeat. That was a 3-0 home loss to Real in September.

They have scored 41 goals this campaign, more than any other side, though the 20 they have conceded is the joint most in the top nine teams in the league. If they are to win a first ever league title, they may need to tighten up at the back.

Their 4-2 victory over Barcelona last week was their first ever win against the Catalan giants, and their success against Alaves on Monday gives them the most wins (14) and points (44) in Europe’s top five leagues at this stage of the season.

“This team is so hungry that it doesn’t settle for anything,” striker Portu told Movistar Plus. “The team wants more and we only think day to day about continuing.

“We can’t look at the standings. The key to the team is to stay focused, nobody relaxes here. It’s not easy to get used to winning, to have that extra pressure… but the team is handling it very well.”

Girona are next in action on Thursday away at Real Betis, who have drawn nine of their 17 games this campaign.