December 31,(THEWILL) – Villarreal secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over local rivals, Valencia in a highly entertaining derby match at the Estadio de la Ceràmica with Samuel Chukwueze and Juan Foyth, helping to secure the win.
The match began at a fast pace, with Villarreal coming close to taking the lead in the opening minute. Álex Baena broke through on goal and set up Gerard, who was unable to finish. Valencia then took control and went ahead through Edinson Cavani, who scored from close range after a rebound from the Villarreal goalkeeper.
The hosts fought back and equalized just before halftime through a stunning goal from their Nigerian forward, Chukwueze, who was set up by Gerard. The second half saw Villarreal dominate possession and come close to scoring on several occasions.
Yet, it was not until the final minutes that they were able to secure the win. Foyth rose highest to head in a corner kick and give Villarreal a vital victory in the derby in front of 19,947 spectators, all of whom at the beginning observed a meaningful minute of silence in memory of football legend, Edson Arantes do Nascimento, popularly known as Pelé.
The two sides open the new year with the Copa del Rey next on their schedule on Tuesday. Cartagena hosts Villarreal at the Estadio Municipal Cartagonova while Valencia is away at the Estadio Camilo Cano to take on La Lucia.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
