Javier Aguirre's debut at Valencia shakes the team with a vibrant draw

In the historic El Sardinero stadium, the Valencian supporters experienced a different afternoon: the debut of Mexican Javier Aguirre in charge of Valencia resulted in a 2‑2 draw against Racing de Santander, with the hosts scoring first and restoring equality at the end.

Anticipation after the international break

The meeting between Racing and Valencia in the Primera División had not been seen for a long time, and the anticipation was amplified by the three weeks of international break that had diverted attention from the situation of both clubs. Aguirre's return to LaLiga coincided with a wave of doubts about Valencia's performance before the transfer window.

The coach, already familiar with Racing in the elite, led his first team with a formation that started as a 1‑5‑4‑1 before shifting to a 1‑3‑4‑2‑1, trying to give prominence to the wing‑backs Gayà and Maffeo and to midfield pieces such as Dani Raba and Javi Guerra.

Match development and first impressions

Dani Raba opened the scoring, fulfilling Aguirre's intention of boosting the “new faces”. However, the lack of discipline and defensive disconnection allowed Racing to respond with a goal from Zabiri in the 32nd minute, and then to take the lead again at the start of the second half.

Aguirre's shaky start sees Valencia salvage point at Santander

The dressing room showed a “rabid” attitude, according to Aguirre in the press conference: “The dressing room was rabid. They showed their class and drew a match that was difficult”. The coach added that he wanted the team to feel the pain of not winning: “That’s what you want from your dressing room, for them to feel the hurt of not winning”.

The draw reflected both the greater involvement of Valencia under Aguirre and the persistence of erratic actions that, if they had continued, could have cost the defeat. The lack of control of the game, especially after the opening goal, highlighted the need to work on the team's mental cohesion.

The result also raises questions about Valencia's defensive strategy, which will need to strengthen its back three and close the spaces to prevent opponents like Racing from exploiting its weaknesses.

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In conclusion, the “Vasco effect” made itself felt, revitalising the team, but the new coach still has to prove that he can maintain consistency throughout the season.