DR Congo star Yoane Wissa scores brace in Newcastle United comeback win over Valencia

DR Congo international Yoane Wissa produced a stunning second-half performance to inspire Newcastle United to a 2-1 comeback victory over Valencia in the Naranja Trophy at Mestalla on Saturday, August 8.

Wissa was the difference-maker for the Magpies, turning a difficult match in Newcastle’s favour with two goals in the space of just six minutes.

Newcastle United went into the encounter looking to finish their pre-season preparations on a positive note, but Valencia proved difficult opponents in front of their home supporters at Mestalla.

The Spanish side took control of the game and opened the scoring in the first half, leaving Newcastle facing a 1-0 deficit at the break.

Despite trailing, Newcastle continued to search for a way back into the contest, but they struggled to break through Valencia’s defensive organisation.

The introduction of Wissa at the start of the second half, however, completely changed the dynamics of the game.

The Congolese striker came on in the 45th minute and immediately provided Newcastle with a greater attacking threat, constantly testing the Valencia defence with his movement, pace and ability to find space inside the penalty area.

His impact was eventually rewarded in the 67th minute.

Wissa found the back of the net to bring Newcastle level at 1-1, giving Eddie Howe’s side renewed confidence and putting the Magpies firmly back in contention for victory.

The equaliser proved to be only the beginning of Wissa’s influence.

Just six minutes later, the DR Congo international struck again, completing a remarkable turnaround and putting Newcastle United 2-1 ahead in the 73rd minute.

In the space of just a few minutes, Wissa had transformed the match from one in which Newcastle were trailing and struggling for an equaliser into a game they were now leading.

His brace sent the Newcastle supporters into celebration and demonstrated his ability to make an immediate impact when introduced from the bench.

Valencia were unable to respond to Newcastle’s turnaround, with the Magpies holding on to their advantage until the final whistle to secure a 2-1 victory.

For Wissa, the performance represents an important boost as Newcastle continue their preparations for the new season.

The Congolese forward showed not only his goalscoring ability but also his capacity to change the course of a match when his team needs him most.

His two goals came at a crucial stage of the encounter, with the first restoring Newcastle’s belief before the second completed the comeback.

The performance will also provide encouragement to Newcastle’s coaching staff, particularly with Wissa demonstrating his sharpness and attacking instincts ahead of the competitive campaign.

Having entered the game at half-time with his side behind, the forward needed only 22 minutes to find the net and another six minutes to complete his brace.

It was a memorable individual display at Mestalla and one that ultimately secured the Naranja Trophy victory for Newcastle United.

Wissa’s contribution was particularly impressive given the circumstances of the match. Newcastle had spent much of the opening period attempting to find a breakthrough after Valencia took the lead, but the introduction of the Congolese striker gave their attack a new dimension.

His movement caused problems for the Valencia backline, while his finishing proved decisive when the opportunities arrived.

The result also gives Newcastle a positive ending to their pre-season preparations, while Wissa can take considerable confidence from his match-winning display.

The DR Congo star will now look to carry that momentum into the new campaign, with Newcastle set to rely on his goals and attacking qualities throughout the season.

At Mestalla, however, it was undoubtedly Wissa who stole the show.

Two goals in six minutes, a complete turnaround and a 2-1 Newcastle victory — Yoane Wissa was the difference-maker.