Villarreal’s young forward Tani Oluwaseyi once again showed his growing influence in La Liga, scoring a stunning back‑heel winner in a tight 2–1 triumph over Mallorca at La Cerámica.
The match was far from straightforward Villarreal opened the scoring early through Gerard Moreno, but Mallorca hit back soon after when Samu Costa equalised in the 8th minute.
Oluwaseyi, introduced in the 63rd minute, refused to be denied. After a scramble in the box, he showed excellent composure to flick home the decisive goal in the 83rd minute a moment of instinct and class that showcased his rising confidence.
His performance adds to an encouraging start at the club since signing a five-year deal from Minnesota United, he has made key contributions in both domestic league and cup competitions.
Editorial
In the swirling ambition of La Liga, moments often define more than matches. Tani Oluwaseyi’s back‑heel winner for Villarreal was one such moment less a flash of showboating and more a quiet assertion of belonging.
Here is a player who has arrived in Spain not as a mere journeyman, but as a statement piece. His finish against Mallorca was not crafted for headlines it was crafted for impact. It came from instinct, skill, and that rare ability to read the chaos of the box then act with both grace and precision.
For Villarreal, this is more than a goal. It’s vindication of a long-term vision. They signed Oluwaseyi on a five-year deal because they see him as part of the club’s future. His willingness to embrace the challenge, and contribute decisively under pressure, suggests they made no mistake.
And for Oluwaseyi himself? This is his turning point. There is talent in spades, but tonight, he showed temperament. He is not just adapting he is imposing.
If he continues on this path, Villarreal’s play-off or even European ambitions may no longer be “unlikely.” With Oluwaseyi growing into his role, the Submarine could yet sail into uncharted, but very promising, waters.
Did You Know?
- Tani Oluwaseyi was born in Abuja, Nigeria, but he represents Canada at international level.
- He is quite tall for a forward: 1.88 m, which helps him hold up play and contest aerial duels.
- His first La Liga goal came in a 2–1 win away at Sevilla, where he scored just 17 minutes after coming on.
- In a Copa del Rey match, he scored a hat-trick in a 6–0 rout of Ciudad de Lucena.
- Villarreal’s manager praised him recently, saying his adaptation has been faster than expected and highlighting his “wonderful attitude and great willingness.”
