La Liga Witnesses the Birth of a New Star as Santander Secures First Top-Flight Win in 14 Years

Fourteen years after their last La Liga triumph, Racing Santander once again celebrated a victory in the top flight. The newly promoted side dramatically edged out Elche 3-2 at home in the opening match of the third round, securing their first win of the campaign. This debut victory was largely thanks to an outstanding performance from their new striker, Yassine Zabiri, who netted a hat-trick in just over half an hour – remarkably, in his very first start in La Liga. Everything seemed decided until the 78th minute when, in a matter of seconds, Elche scored two quick goals. This set up a tense finish, as the visitors pushed relentlessly for an equalizer.

Santander's hero, Zabiri, joined on loan from Rennes this summer and had previously made two substitute appearances. However, the 21-year-old Moroccan started this match and quickly bagged three goals in the 15th, 21st, and 36th minutes. The first goal was largely due to a significant error from opposing goalkeeper Dituro.

Elche only truly recovered after the break, delivering a much stronger second half. In the 78th minute, Bouba Sangare pulled one back to make it 1-3 with a long-range shot, and seconds later, Fernando Niño also found the net, suddenly silencing “El Sardinero” with anxiety.

The visitors launched numerous attacks until the final whistle, but Racing's defense held firm.