Dani Parejo’s dramatic 10th-minute stoppage-time penalty secured Villarreal a thrilling 4-3 victory over Celta Vigo on Monday, marking one of the most captivating matches of the 2024-25 Spanish La Liga season.
Parejo’s initial penalty was saved by Ivan Villar, but he swiftly converted the rebound, sealing the win in a match filled with relentless twists and turns. The home side twice came from behind, then surrendered their lead, only to clinch victory at the very end.
The victory propels Villarreal to the top of the La Liga table with seven points from three games, one point ahead of Celta Vigo and Barcelona, the latter having played one fewer game.
Celta Vigo, one of only two teams to win their first two league games, struck early when Borja Iglesias capitalized on a goalkeeping error in the 11th minute. Villarreal’s Sergi Cardona leveled the score 15 minutes later, hammering home a corner nodded across the goal by Gerard Moreno.
Oscar Mingueza showcased his fine form by restoring Celta’s lead after half an hour with a low free-kick from 30 yards. Then, new signing Thierno Barry made an immediate impact, heading home with his first touch just a minute after coming on as a substitute.
An own goal from Jailson gave Villarreal the lead until Carl Starfelt’s equalizer with ten minutes remaining set up a thrilling finale.
Both teams pushed for the winner, with Celta hitting the post before the referee awarded a penalty to Villarreal for a foul on Barry. Parejo’s decisive moment ensured a memorable victory for the home side.
“If you have to lose, then that’s the way,” commented Borja Iglesias. “The fans must have enjoyed that game.”
Reference(s):
Villarreal beat Celta 4-3 with last-gasp penalty, go top in La Liga
cgtn.com
