La Liga: Nicolas Pépé ends six-month goal drought

Africa 10 February 2026 at 08:40

Nafongo TRAORE

News Editor

Villarreal claimed a resounding 4-1 victory over Espanyol Barcelona on February 9 as part of Matchday 23 in La Liga. Ivorian forward Nicolas Pépé netted his side’s third goal, finally putting an end to a six-month scoring drought.

Six months—half a year! That’s how long Nicolas Pépé went without finding the back of the net. The Ivorian international’s last goal came on August 31, 2025, against Celta Vigo in the third round. Yesterday, after 32 matches, the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations winner could finally breathe a sigh of relief, contributing to Villarreal’s emphatic 4-1 win over Espanyol Barcelona.

After a brilliant performance last week against Osasuna (2-2), the 30-year-old striker is proving he’s back in form and full of renewed confidence. His coach, Marcelino, said: “This match suited him perfectly; he was outstanding in Pamplona, providing an assist and winning a penalty. Today, he was lively, decisive, quick, and fierce in attack, regaining his confidence and composure. He’s an extremely important player at this level, and his performance benefits the entire team.”

This tough period cost Nicolas Pépé a spot in the most recent Africa Cup of Nations. But if he maintains this momentum, he could be in line for a return to the Elephants squad under Emerse Faé.