LaLiga: Nicolas Pépé scores on Villarreal debut in draw at Racing Santander

Nicolas Pépé marked his first LaLiga appearance of the season with a goal as Villarreal were held to a 2-2 draw by newly promoted Racing Santander at El Sardinero.

The Ivory Coast winger produced a fine finish, curling the ball into the top corner to give Villarreal an important attacking contribution in their opening league fixture.

The draw means Villarreal began their campaign with a point, while Pépé immediately made his presence felt as he looks to build on an impressive previous season.

Pépé makes immediate impact

Pépé’s goal provided an encouraging start to the new campaign after the 31-year-old ended last season in strong form.

The forward joined Villarreal in 2024 following his spell with Trabzonspor.

During his first season at the club, he registered three goals and six assists.

He improved those figures last season, finishing with eight goals and eight assists as his influence within the Villarreal attack continued to grow.

His latest goal at Racing Santander gives him an early platform to continue that progress.

Pépé also arrives at club level after making his mark for Ivory Coast at the 2026 World Cup, where he scored twice and supplied one assist.

That international experience adds to the attacking qualities Villarreal can call upon from the experienced winger.

Experience remains a key asset

Pépé’s career has given him considerable experience at both club and international level.

The Ivory Coast international has won 54 caps for his country and has scored 14 goals.

He was also part of the Ivory Coast side that won the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

His experience has been built through spells with several clubs, including Lille, Nice and Arsenal, before moving to Trabzonspor and eventually Villarreal.

At Villarreal, his role has continued to grow.

His performances last season, combined with his contribution for Ivory Coast at the World Cup, have strengthened his position as an important attacking option.

His goal against Racing Santander was therefore more than just a positive individual moment.

It provided an early indication of what Villarreal can expect from the forward during the new campaign.

Villarreal held in opening fixture

Villarreal had travelled to El Sardinero hoping to begin their LaLiga campaign with a victory against the newly promoted side.

Instead, the two teams shared four goals in an entertaining 2-2 contest.

For Pépé, however, the match offered an immediate personal highlight.

His ability to find the top corner with a curling effort underlined the quality that has made him an important part of Villarreal’s attacking plans.

The Ivorian now has an early goal to his name and will be looking to build on that contribution as the season progresses.

With his experience, recent form and international pedigree, Pépé is expected to remain an important figure for Villarreal.

His opening-day goal against Racing Santander has given him a positive start as the Yellow Submarine begin their latest LaLiga campaign.