Pape Gueye opened his account for the season with a spectacular strike as Villarreal began their La Liga campaign against Real Oviedo.
The Senegalese midfielder found the net in the 36th minute with a goal that showcased both his vision and technical quality.
The move began with Gueye himself, who drove forward through midfield before combining with Nicolas Pépé on the edge of the box. Receiving the return pass in stride, Gueye unleashed a thunderous left-footed effort from distance that flew beyond the goalkeeper and nestled into the top corner.
It was a finish of the highest order, greeted with roars of approval from the Villarreal supporters.
The strike not only handed Villarreal a crucial lead but also underlined Gueye’s growing influence within the squad. Having arrived with a reputation as a combative midfielder, the 25-year-old has increasingly demonstrated his ability to contribute in advanced areas, and this moment served as a perfect example of his expanding range.
Real Oviedo, promoted back into the top flight, looked to regroup after conceding but struggled to contain Villarreal’s control in midfield. Gueye’s dominance, combined with the creativity of Pépé and the movement of Villarreal’s forwards, left Oviedo chasing the ball for long periods.
Though they sought to respond with direct attacking play, Villarreal’s defensive shape limited their opportunities to test the goalkeeper.
The Senegalese international’s goal will be remembered not only for its execution but also for the confidence it seemed to inject into his teammates. Villarreal, who are aiming to push for European qualification this season, played with assurance and rhythm, with Gueye frequently dictating the tempo from midfield.
His balance of defensive resilience and attacking flair gave manager and fans alike plenty of encouragement about what lies ahead.
For Gueye, the goal represents a milestone moment in his Spanish journey. Known for his discipline and tactical awareness, he has often been tasked with breaking up opposition attacks and recycling possession.
Now, with his first goal of the campaign arriving in such emphatic fashion, there is a growing sense that he could emerge as one of Villarreal’s most important figures in their attacking build-up.
Supporters took to social media immediately after the match, praising the midfielder’s effort and drawing comparisons with some of the best long-range goals scored in La Liga. Many highlighted his composure and ability to strike with precision under pressure, calling it “a goal of the season contender” even at such an early stage.
While Villarreal continue their campaign with ambitions of climbing towards the league’s upper positions, Gueye’s contribution on opening day has set a high standard.
His performance will also be of interest to Senegal national team coach Pape Thiaw, as the midfielder’s form could be key heading into future international fixtures, particularly with preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations intensifying.
As the final whistle blew, Villarreal’s narrow lead held firm, giving them a positive start to the season. But it was Gueye’s brilliance that defined the evening—his thunderous left-footed strike ensuring that Villarreal fans left the stadium with a memory to savour.
With one moment of inspiration, Pape Gueye not only opened his personal tally but also set the tone for Villarreal’s aspirations in the new La Liga season.
Liga 🇪🇸
Pape Gueye inscrit son premier but de la saison face au Real Oviedo, 2-0 match en cours !
[🎥 @GoalsXtra] pic.twitter.com/8aGXoQPCGq
— Joueurs SN 🇸🇳 (@JoueursSN) August 15, 2025
