Samuel Chukwueze was the hero for Villarreal scoring a superb brace and the winning goal in their 3-2 win over La Liga’s defending champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday. 

The win at the Santiago Bernabeu is only the second time in Villarreal’s history that they will be coming off the stadium with a win. 

The hosts had taken the lead in the 16th minute from a Pau Torres’ own goal. Chukwueze scored the equaliser in the 39th minute. The Nigeria international who received a well played pass from Giovani Lo Celso on the edge of the 18-yard box turned defender Nacho inside-out before sending Thibaut Courtois the wrong way from close range. 

Vinicius Junior gave Madrid the lead in the 48th minute while substitute Jose Luis Morales equalised for the visitors in the 70th minute, three minutes after coming on for Giovani Lo Celso. However, Chukwueze in the 80th minute saved the best goal for last curling the ball perfectly from the edge of the box to beat Courtois in goal and hand his side the maximum points. 

The victory and the three points takes the Yellow Submarines to fifth on the LaLiga log, five points behind fourth-placed Real Sociedad as they continue their push for a top four league finish which will guarantee them a UEFA Champions League place and big money. 

For Real Madrid, the loss further puts a dent on their championship push as they could move 15 points behind table toppers Barcelona who will be hosting Girona  at Camp on Monday.

Speaking after the game, Chukwueze says he’s excited with his performance, his brace and the overall performances of the team.

“I think I’m having the best form of my career, I feel the team did better especially in the second half. I am extremely delighted with the goals and I believe it will help us going forward. “

The brace takes Chukwueze’s league goals tally to six from 26 games in the league.