Villarreal CF earned a point after drawing 1-1 with Deportivo at La Cerámica this Saturday, on the fourth matchday of LaLiga EA Sports. The Yellow Submarine, sitting 15th in the table with just 2 points, saw their early lead vanish before halftime.
Pépé's goal for Villarreal came after a mistake by visiting goalkeeper Leo Román, who gifted the ball in a risky outing. However, the home side's joy was short-lived. Just before the break, Luismi Cruz capitalised on a well-worked Deportivo move to level the score. The midfielder found the net after a fine team play.
Who was the standout performer?
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was undoubtedly the most decisive player on the pitch. The Deportivo forward not only scored a goal but also provided two key assists. He also had two other clear chances to score. The player himself summarised his afternoon with a blunt quote: "Dos asistencias y un gol. Tuvo otras dos ocasiones. Todo lo que tiene lo convierte. No se puede hacer más con menos." His performance was the cornerstone of his team's comeback.
How did the match unfold?
The game started with Villarreal pressing high, but it was Deportivo who showed more danger on the counter. Besides Cruz's goal, the visiting side saw wing-back Adama Traoré score an own goal, though this effort did not ultimately stand. Later, substitute Eddahchouri also found the back of the net, adding another goal to Deportivo's tally. For the hosts, players like Moleiro and Moreno tried to make the difference but failed to convert their opportunities.
What is Villarreal CF's current situation?
This draw leaves Villarreal CF in a tricky position early in the 2026/27 season. With this result, the team has now gone three consecutive matchdays without a win, recording zero victories, two draws, and one loss. In the standings, the Yellows have a negative goal difference (-1), having conceded 5 goals and scored 4. They are also already 7 points behind leaders Barcelona. The need to start winning is becoming urgent.
What's next for the team?
Villarreal CF's next fixture is of great importance. On Sunday, September 14th, they will host Real Betis at La Cerámica, a direct rival currently sitting third in the table. It will be a key duel to try and break the poor run of results and start climbing the standings. Fans can check the full schedule on our fixtures page. The manager must find solutions to improve the defensive performance, which has been a burden in these opening weeks.
