Deportivo produced a late comeback to claim a 3-2 victory at Villarreal in the fourth round of the Spanish championship, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scoring the decisive goal in the 89th minute.
Villarreal had been considered the favourites before kick-off and made the stronger start on home soil. Their early pressure was rewarded after 19 minutes, when Nicolas Pepe converted a cross from Ayoze Perez to put the hosts ahead.
The opening goal gave Villarreal control of the contest, but Deportivo stayed in the match and managed to restore parity before half-time. Luismi Cruz equalised for the visitors, with Aubameyang providing the assist.
That goal ensured the sides went into the interval level, despite Villarreal’s promising beginning. Deportivo had recovered from conceding first, but the hosts regained the advantage in the second half.
Villarreal moved back in front in the 76th minute through Adama Traore. His goal appeared to put the home side on course to secure the three points, particularly after they had twice taken the lead during the match.
Deportivo, however, refused to surrender. The visitors from La Coruna continued to push for another equaliser and were rewarded when Zakaria Eddahchouri scored to make it 2-2.
The game then appeared to be heading towards a draw, but Aubameyang had the final say. The forward struck in the 89th minute to complete Deportivo’s comeback and secure all three points for the visitors.
The result means Villarreal’s attacking efforts were not enough to earn them victory after they scored first and then regained the lead. Deportivo’s resilience proved decisive as they twice came from behind, with Aubameyang contributing an assist and the winning goal.
For Villarreal, the defeat came despite goals from Pepe and Traore. Deportivo’s goals were scored by Cruz, Eddahchouri and Aubameyang, giving the La Coruna side a dramatic victory at the end of a five-goal match.