Nigerian midfielder Christantus Uche made an impressive debut with top-tier club Getafe, scoring a goal on the opening day of the Spanish league. Just two years ago, Uche was playing in the fifth division of Spanish soccer. His crucial goal came in the 64th minute with a strong header from near the penalty spot after a corner kick, helping Getafe secure a 1-1 draw at Athletic Bilbao. Reflecting on his debut goal, the 21-year-old expressed his joy, stating that scoring in his first match was an amazing feeling.
Before joining Getafe, Uche played for fifth-division club Moralo and later moved to third-division side Ceuta for a reported transfer fee of 800 euros (now $877). Athletic Bilbao, the defending Copa del Rey champion, had initially taken the lead at their San Mames Stadium through Oihan Sancet in the 27th minute.
Meanwhile, Girona, who surprised many last season by finishing third, started their new campaign with a 1-1 draw against Real Betis. Gabriel Misehouy scored the equalizer in the 72nd minute for Girona, responding to Marc Bartra’s early goal for Betis six minutes into the match at the Benito Villamarin Stadium.
After making history by qualifying for the Champions League last season, Girona faces challenges this season due to the departure of key players like Artem Dovbyk, Aleix Garcia, Savinho, Eric Garcia, and Yan Couto. On the other hand, Betis, who finished seventh last season, also showed promise in the opening match.
Real Madrid, the defending champion and bolstered with Kylian Mbappé in the squad, is set to kick off their season against Mallorca on Sunday. Barcelona will play against Valencia on Saturday, while Atletico Madrid will visit Villarreal on Monday.