Last-Minute Equalizer Sees Espanyol Salvage Draw Against Valencia
A stunning late goal from Espanyol allowed them to clinch a draw at home, coming back from behind twice against Valencia, who, despite the disappointment, maintained their unbeaten record in their last five matches at the RCDE Stadium.
Match Highlights
A dynamic kick-off saw Kike Garcia launch an attack with a shot that forced the Valencia goalkeeper, Julen Agirrezabala, into an early save. Soon after, Tyrhys Dolan attempted to find the net but missed with a shot that veered wide, as Espanyol started the game energetically.
However, the tide soon changed when Arnaut Danjuma capitalized on a superb cross from Luis Rioja and volleyed the ball home from the back post. This was only Valencia’s second league goal scored before halftime this season.
Espanyol pushed hard to equalize, with Garcia finding himself blocked at close range. In a crucial defensive moment, Cesar Tarrega prevented two attempts on goal by clearing the ball off the line. Dolan’s angled attempt was also saved by Agirrezabala, allowing Valencia to preserve their lead going into halftime.
Goals and Responses
After the break, the momentum shifted once more. Espanyol equalized through Leandro Cabrera, who nodded in Edu Exposito’s well-delivered corner kick. But Valencia quickly responded as Hugo Duro headed in a swift cross from substitute Filip Ugrinic, restoring their lead once again.
Espanyol continued to press for another leveler, with Garcia once more stopped by Agirrezabala from a close distance. The night was proving frustrating for him, as he later missed another chance, shooting wide when he found himself in the box.
In a dramatic finish, Espanyol executed a precise free-kick routine that ended in a header from Javi Puado, who scored the equalizer with time running out, ensuring a thrilling conclusion to the match.
Conclusion
The draw prevented Espanyol from suffering consecutive league losses and extended their streak to six straight draws in head-to-head matches against Valencia, who were left disappointed to miss out on back-to-back league wins.
Star Player of the Match: Javi Puado (Espanyol)
For further match details, click here.
