Alex Freeman was, once again, the American highlight in Spain this weekend. Not only because of Cardoso’s absence, but also because of his very important goal.
Valencia 1-2 Villarreal
Alex Freeman went the distance in a relatively new position for him, as Iñigo Pérez decided to line him up as a left-back for most of the game. He had a wondeful game as he scored a header two equalize the score in the 69th minute. Other than the goal, he also completed two key passes, had six defensive contributions, and won seven of his duels.
Pepelu opened the score for Valencia via a penalty kick in the 36th minute, but Villarreal turned it around thanks to Freeman’s header and Mikautadze’s very late goal in the 90+6th minute.
Villarreal climbs to the 10th spot thanks to this Valencian derby win with 12 points. First round of the Copa del Rey next week against 5th-tier club CD Manacor. Freeman is expected to rest.
Notes
Real Sociedad and Pellegrino Matarazzo are on a roll as they haven’t lost in 6 games. They beat Levante 2-1 and remain 5th-placed. The Basque derby against Athletic Club is up next.
Johnny Cardoso missed out on Atlético Madrid’s 1-0 win against RC Deportivo because of a minor muscle discomfort. It’s not a serious injury and he should be back with the group by the first week of November.
Down in Segunda Federación, Xanti Oyharçabal played 81 minutes in Basconia’s 2-2 draw against Portugalete. He saw the yellow card in the 45th minute.
Axel Pérez played the full match in Castellón B’s 2-1 win against Orihuela.
Cameron Williams was subbed on in the 57th minute in CP Mijas Las Lagunas’ 1-1 draw against Real Betis Deportivo.
In Tercera Federación, Keller Storlie went the distance in Palencia’s 1-1 draw against Turégano.
Roberto Albuquerque scored one goal in Caudal Deportivo’s 2-1 win against Avilés Stadium.