Villarreal CF's debut in the 2026/27 season concluded with a 2-2 draw against Real Racing Club de Santander at El Sardinero. Iñigo Pérez's team had to fight intensely to secure a point, especially after an adverse start to the match that left them two goals down during the first half-hour.
The match marked the Cantabrian stadium's return to the top flight after 14 years, with a vibrant atmosphere in the stands. For this debut, the Navarrese coach opted for a renewed starting lineup, with Luiz Júnior in goal and a defense composed of Mouriño, Foyth, Renato Veiga, and Carlos Romero. In midfield, Pepe, Comesaña, Gueye, and Moleiro formed the engine room, with Mikautadze and Ayoze as offensive threats.
Racing broke the initial balance in the 18th minute when Santi Comesaña fouled Salinas near the penalty area. After a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Andrés Martín converted the penalty to put the hosts ahead. Shortly after, Sergio Martínez extended the lead with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, making it 2-0 and leaving Villarreal in a difficult position.
Despite the deficit, Villarreal did not give up and reacted before halftime. Pape Gueye and Nicolas Pepe scored two spectacular goals that neutralized Racing's advantage, leveling the score before the break and allowing the Submarine to snatch a valuable point in their first league match.
