Villarreal CF suffered their second consecutive La Liga EA Sports defeat, falling 2-3 to Deportivo de La Coruña on Saturday, September 5th at the Estadio de la Cerámica. Iñigo Pérez's side could not hold onto an early lead and succumbed to a comeback orchestrated by an inspired Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

This result leaves the Yellow Submarine in a concerning 16th place in the standings, with just two points from a possible twelve. Their record after four matches reads zero wins, two draws, and two losses, with a negative goal difference of six scored to eight conceded.

How did the match against Deportivo unfold?

Villarreal CF started the match brightly and took the lead through a goal from Pépé. The home side dominated the early exchanges, with Gerard Moreno and Moleiro creating danger. However, Deportivo's response, fueled by Aubameyang's mobility, was swift.

Before halftime, the Gabonese forward assisted Luismi Cruz for the equalizer. In the second half, an unfortunate own goal from Adama put Villarreal back in front. But the lead was short-lived. Aubameyang, who provided two assists, ended up as the executioner by scoring the decisive goal in the Galician comeback, sealing a win that extends the local team's poor run.

What lineup did Iñigo Pérez field?

According to information published by Sport Aragón, manager Iñigo Pérez started with Luiz Junior in goal. The defense consisted of Freeman, Costa, Veiga, and Cardona. Pepe, Saliba, and Gueye were chosen in midfield, while the attack featured Moleiro, Gerard Moreno, and Ayoze Pérez.

This lineup reflected the need for points against a promoted rival, but also an eye on the upcoming Champions League fixture. The team showed intensity but lacked defensive solidity at key moments, a recurring pattern in the early season.

What is Villarreal CF's current outlook?

The situation is delicate. The team finds itself seven points behind leaders Barcelona and needs a quick reaction. The absence of defender Juan Foyth, listed on our injuries page, limits options in a defensive area that has shown vulnerabilities.

The next league challenge will not be easy. Villarreal CF will host third-placed Real Betis on September 14th. You can check all the details of this and upcoming fixtures in our match schedule. The team must find the formula to turn their play into results before the gap in the table grows wider.

What did the match images show?

A licensable picture from Reuters Connect, captured by David Aliaga of NurPhoto, immortalized the reaction of Deportivo defender José María Giménez during the match. The image, taken at La Cerámica, reflects the intensity and frustration that characterized a difficult night for the home side.

These visual elements document a moment in the season the club will want to move past. The focus must now be on recovery and preparation for the clash against Betis, a match that looks essential to correct course and start collecting three points at a time.