Villarreal Snatch Last-Minute Victory to Top La Liga

Villarreal secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Celta Vigo on Monday evening, in a match that showcased the best and worst of Spanish football. Dani Parejo, the home side's captain, delivered the decisive blow in the 10th minute of injury time, converting a rebound from a saved penalty to propel Villarreal to the summit of La Liga.

The encounter was a rollercoaster ride for both teams, with the lead changing hands multiple times throughout the 90 minutes and beyond. Celta Vigo, one of only two teams to have won their first two league fixtures, began the game brightly, taking the lead in the 11th minute through Borja Iglesias. The striker capitalised on a moment of indecision from Villarreal goalkeeper, exploiting a defensive lapse to open the scoring.

Villarreal responded with vigour, drawing level just 15 minutes later. Sergi Cardona, who was making his first La Liga start for the Yellow Submarine, powered home a corner that had been cleverly flicked on by Gerard Moreno. The equaliser ignited the home crowd and set the stage for a dramatic second half.

Oscar Mingueza, on loan from Barcelona, restored Celta's lead in the 30th minute with a stunning 30-yard free-kick. The strike showcased the midfielder's composure and technical prowess, placing the ball beyond the reach of the diving Villarreal goalkeeper.

Villarreal, however, refused to buckle. Shortly after the hour mark, their new signing Thierno Barry, making his debut after joining from FC Basel last week, headed home with his first touch of the ball, just a minute after entering the fray. The goal was a testament to the striker's instinct and immediate impact on the game.

The lead changed hands once again when a Jailson own goal put Villarreal ahead, only for Celta to draw level once more through a Carl Starfelt header with 10 minutes remaining. The match entered a frenetic final stage, with both sides pushing for the winning goal. Celta came close to finding the winner when they struck the post, only to be denied by the woodwork.

The game's ultimate climax arrived in the dying moments. After a foul on Barry in the penalty area, the referee awarded Villarreal a penalty kick. Parejo, stepping up to take the responsibility, saw his initial spot-kick saved by the impressive Iván Villar. However, the midfielder was quick to react, pouncing on the rebound and firing the ball into the back of the net to secure a dramatic victory for the Yellow Submarine.

"If you have to lose, then that's the way," said Borja Iglesias after the game. "The fans must have enjoyed that game."

The result sees Villarreal move to the top of La Liga, leapfrogging Celta and Barcelona, who have played one game fewer. The game was a microcosm of the early season excitement in the Spanish top flight, with thrilling action, dramatic twists and turns, and a last-minute winner that left everyone in the stadium gasping for air.