With forwards Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres suspended and midfielder Pedri recovering from a muscle problem, Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez opted to rotate his side on a chilly afternoon in Montilivi.
They rested key players such as Andreas Christensen and Alejandro Balde, while former Manchester City defender Eric Garcia started for the first time in more than three months.
However, Padre was soon called into action after Ousmane Dembele was substituted with a muscle injury in the 25th minute.
Despite having almost 70 percent possession in the first half, Barcelona struggled to break the deadlock against Girona’s low blocks.