Racing Santander beat Villarreal 1-0 in La Liga return thanks to Andrés Martín’s goal

Racing de Santander are back in La Liga, and they made sure everyone noticed. Andrés Martín’s goal was enough to sink Villarreal 1-0 in the season opener on August 16, giving the promoted side three points in their first top-flight match in years. The victory at Campos de Sport de El Sardinero wasn’t just a nice start. It was a statement from a club that has spent an extended stretch grinding through Spain’s lower divisions, now standing toe-to-toe with established La Liga sides and winning. Martín continues his scoring run The forward netted 23 goals in the 2025-26 Segunda División season, essentially dragging Racing into the promotion conversation through sheer goal-scoring volume. Martín’s goal came in the first half, and it proved to be the only one Racing needed. Racing set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a shape designed to provide defensive solidity while feeding their primary attacking threat. It’s worth noting the supporting cast around Martín. Sergio Canales provided creativity in the attacking midfield areas. Iñigo Vicente offered width and intelligence. Asier Villalibre brought physicality. And goalkeeper Julen Agirrezabala, along with defender Álvaro Mantilla, ensured the c...