Jordi Ferriols’ side defeat Deportivo Alavés with a second-half brace from Aixa Salvador
Villarreal Women travelled to Ibaia with the mission of dethroning Deportivo Alavés, the unbeaten league leaders in the Primera Federación — and they did just that! A second-half double from Aixa Salvador earned the Yellows three hard-fought and valuable points.
The match began at a high tempo from both sides. The hosts had two early chances through Paula León and Merche Izal in the 13th and 17th minutes, but Montse Quesada produced fine saves on both occasions. Villarreal had to stay solid defensively but still created danger in attack. Aixa Salvador came close to scoring in the 12th minute, though her effort was ruled out for offside. Moments later, she tried again with a shot from inside the box, but the home keeper denied her (27’). With both teams looking for an opener, the first half ended goalless.
After the break, Jordi Ferriols’ side stepped up and quickly found their reward. In the opening minutes, Cienfu delivered a superb cross that Aixa headed home to make it 0-1 (48’). However, the lead didn’t last long, as Ainhoa Guallar levelled the score for Alavés in the 56th minute after a cross from Merche Izal (1-1).
Villarreal regained control and struck again in the 72nd minute. Aixa Salvador, once more, found the back of the net to complete the comeback (1-2). The hosts pushed late on with efforts from Raquel and Pichi, but Montse Quesada produced two excellent saves to secure the win for the Yellows.
Villarreal Women’s next match will be on Saturday 8th November at 4pm CET against Cacereño at the José Manuel Llaneza Training Ground.
Line-ups:
Deportivo Alavés: Sofía; Gaste (Laia, 72’), I. Altamira, Pichi, Merche Izal, Celia (Elene E., 83’), Almudena (Navajas, 46’), Viles (Nayadet, 64’), Guallar (Raquel, 72’), Carmen, Paula León.
Villarreal Women: M. Quesada; Nerea, Paulsen, Moreira, Laura; S. Medina (C. Enseñat, 89’), Cienfu, María, Lauris (Estupiñán, 82’); Macías (Figols, 75’), Aixa (Alexia Jr, 75’).
Goals: 0-1, 48’: Aixa. 1-1, 56’: Guallar. 1-2, 72’: Aixa.
Referee: Cecilia Muñoz.
Matchday information: Matchday 8 of the 2025/26 Primera Federación season at Ibaia.
