Villarreal picked up their first victory of the season with a 3-1 win in Málaga. After falling behind early, Gueye scored twice and Moleiro added another to turn the match around in front of more than 28,000 fans.
Villarreal earned their first win of the season at La Rosaleda, coming from behind to defeat Málaga 3-1. The match started badly for the visitors when Dotor put Málaga ahead, but Villarreal quickly found their footing and took control.
Pape Gueye was the difference, scoring twice to erase Málaga’s early lead. Moleiro added a third, and Málaga never recovered. Villarreal’s response was organized and calm, reflecting the approach of coach Íñigo Pérez, who saw his team react well after conceding first.
Villarreal dominated possession with 63% and registered seven shots on target, while Málaga managed only one.
The stadium was packed, with 28,505 Málaga fans in attendance. Despite the home crowd’s energy, Villarreal’s goals quieted the stands as the match wore on. Málaga goalkeeper Alfonso Herrero spoke after the game about the disappointment of losing but thanked the supporters for their backing.
Referee Miguel Ángel Ortiz was in charge, with Carlos del Cerro handling VAR. The officials managed a match that changed quickly after the opening goal, and Villarreal’s comeback left little doubt by the end. ESPN noted Villarreal’s stronger attacking numbers and higher xG throughout the game.
Media coverage included live commentary and tactical analysis, with MARCA focusing on the key moments and the impact of Villarreal’s quick goals after Málaga’s strong start.
Before this match, Villarreal had not won any of their first five league games, recording two draws and three losses with a -3 goal difference. This victory was seen as a crucial turning point in their season.
BBC Sports
The match in Málaga drew a big crowd and showed the pull of live football in Spain, similar to other recent events like the street exhibition in Bilbao. Both highlight how public gatherings remain central to Spanish life, whether in stadiums or on city streets.
Villarreal’s win at La Rosaleda could mark a change in their season after a difficult start. Coming back from an early goal, sticking to their plan, and performing under pressure showed a level of maturity that may help them going forward. For Málaga, the loss is a setback, but the strong turnout at home reflects the city’s passion for football. In a league where every result matters, Villarreal’s performance stands out for its resilience and clear execution.
