Nicolas Pepe scores stunning goal as Villarreal fight back to draw 2-2 with Racing Santander

Ivory Coast international Nicolas Pepe made an instant impact on the opening day of the Spanish league season, scoring a spectacular goal as Villarreal came from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Racing Santander on Sunday.

Villarreal looked to be heading for a disappointing start to the campaign after falling 2-0 behind at the Estadio El Sardinero.

However, the visitors produced a dramatic late first-half response, with Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye and Ivorian forward Pepe turning the game around within the space of two minutes.

Gueye gave Villarreal a lifeline in the 45th minute when he pulled one goal back to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

The comeback was completed just moments later. In the first minute of added time, Pepe stepped up with a moment of individual brilliance, curling a magnificent effort into the back of the net to bring Villarreal level at 2-2.

The Ivorian’s strike capped a remarkable turnaround for Villarreal, who had looked in serious trouble only minutes earlier.

Despite both sides pushing for a winner after the restart, neither team could find the decisive goal, meaning Villarreal had to settle for a point from their opening league fixture.

For Pepe, the goal represents an encouraging start to the new campaign and another reminder of his ability to produce moments of quality when his team needs them most.

Gueye also played a crucial role in the comeback, with his goal providing the spark that allowed Villarreal to recover from their two-goal deficit.

The draw means Villarreal leave Santander with a point after showing impressive character to rescue a result from a difficult position.

With Pepe and Gueye already making their mark, Villarreal will hope the pair can continue to play influential roles as the season progresses.