Portu doubled their lead with a strike from near the edge of the area following a cross by Couto.

Manchester City loanee Couto then won a penalty, which Ukraine striker Dovbyk converted for his 10th La Liga goal of the season.

Dovbyk is thought to be the club's record signing, having joined for a reported £6m from Dnipro in the summer.

Michel's Girona, who are co-owned by the City Football Group that also includes Manchester City, are two points above Real Madrid.

The Catalan side, who have never won a major trophy, are nine points above neighbours Barcelona in third place.

Girona could seal top spot at Christmas - and the halfway point of the season - if they win at Real Betis on Thursday.