In one of the most electrifying matches of the 2024-25 Spanish La Liga season, Villarreal secured a dramatic 4-3 victory against Celta Vigo on Monday, propelling themselves to the top of the league table.
The game was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with both teams showcasing relentless determination. Celta Vigo, one of the only two teams to win their first two league games, took an early lead in the 11th minute thanks to Borja Iglesias capitalizing on a lapse in Villarreal's defense.
However, Villarreal responded swiftly. Sergi Cardona leveled the score 15 minutes later after receiving a well-delivered corner from Gerard Moreno. The intensity didn't drop as Oscar Mingueza put Celta back in front with a stunning 30-yard free kick just before halftime.
The second half saw Villarreal's new signing, Thierno Barry, make an immediate impact by heading home his first goal of the season only a minute after coming on as a substitute. An own goal from Jailson temporarily gave Villarreal the lead, but Carl Starfelt equalized for Celta with just 10 minutes remaining.
With the match hanging in the balance, Dani Parejo became the hero in the dying moments of stoppage time. After his initial penalty was saved by Ivan Villar, Parejo didn't miss the rebound, sending Villarreal to a exhilarating 4-3 victory.
\"If you have to lose then that's the way,\" Celta's Borja Iglesias commented post-match. \"The fans must have enjoyed that game.\"
This win marks Villarreal's third consecutive victory, earning them seven points from three games, just ahead of Celta and Barcelona, who have each played one less match.
Reference(s):
Villarreal beat Celta 4-3 with last-gasp penalty, go top in La Liga
cgtn.com
