Marcelino’s side claimed their first ever home victory in a LALIGA season opener, defeating Real Oviedo thanks to goals from Etta Eyong and Pape Gueye
Villarreal began the 2025/26 season in the best possible way. The Yellows put an end to the curse that had haunted their opening-day fixtures at La Cerámica, beating Real Oviedo 2-0 and closing a run of eight home openers in the top flight without a win. Etta Eyong and Pape Gueye got the goals against a determined Oviedo side, who played an hour with ten men.
The Submarine started the campaign at home against Real Oviedo, who returned to the top flight 24 years later. The Yellows also faced the challenge of breaking a long-standing jinx: they had never won a Matchday 1 game in LALIGA when it was played at La Cerámica. Eight previous occasions, zero victories.
The game was special not only for the Asturians but also for Villarreal, who welcomed back one of their greatest legends: Santi Cazorla. At 40 years old, the magician from Asturias returned to La Cerámica as captain of his hometown club. Villarreal paid tribute by presenting him with a commemorative shirt marking his 334 appearances for the Submarine, while the fans greeted him with a heartfelt ovation in recognition of his extraordinary career.
