Senegal star Pape Gueye scores brace as Villarreal complete comeback win over Malaga

Senegal international midfielder Pape Gueye produced a standout performance for Villarreal on Thursday, scoring twice to inspire his side to a 3-1 comeback victory over Malaga in the La Liga.

Villarreal travelled to Estadio La Rosaleda for their matchday six encounter and found themselves behind early in the game after Malaga took the lead in the 12th minute.

The visitors responded strongly and eventually restored parity through Alberto Moleiro, who found the back of the net in the 40th minute to make it 1-1.

With Villarreal looking to complete the turnaround before the break, Gueye stepped up at a crucial moment.

The Senegalese midfielder put Villarreal ahead in first-half stoppage time, finding the net with a composed left-footed finish from inside the penalty area to send his side into the interval with a 2-1 advantage.

Gueye continued to play an influential role in the second half as Villarreal looked to protect their lead and secure all three points away from home.

The 27-year-old eventually put the result beyond doubt in the 86th minute when Villarreal were awarded a penalty. Gueye confidently converted from the spot to complete his brace and seal a convincing 3-1 victory for the Yellow Submarine.

The performance capped an impressive start to the campaign for the Senegalese international, who has now scored three goals in six La Liga appearances for Villarreal this season.

Gueye’s latest display further underlined his growing importance to Villarreal, with the midfielder contributing at both ends of the pitch as his side recovered from an early setback to claim victory at La Rosaleda.

His brace also provided Villarreal with a major boost as they continued their La Liga campaign, while Gueye’s scoring form is likely to be welcomed by Senegal ahead of their upcoming international commitments.