Valencia ended a two‑month winless streak with a 2‑1 victory over Getafe at the Coliseum Alfonso Pérez on 18 January 2026. The win lifted them to 17th place, three points clear of the relegation zone, and provided crucial momentum as the La Liga season reaches its decisive phase.
Match Overview
First Half – Cautious Beginnings
Both coaches started with pragmatic formations. Getafe deployed a compact 4‑4‑2, while Valencia lined up in a 4‑2‑3‑1 with veteran midfielder José Luis Gómez anchoring the double pivot. Early chances were scarce; Getafe’s striker Álvaro Ramos rattled the post in the 22nd minute, and Valencia’s Kevin Moya forced a spectacular save shortly after.
Breakthrough – Valencia’s Early Lead
The deadlock broke in the 37th minute. After a corner clearance, play‑maker Julián Araujo delivered a low pass to Emre Kocak, who turned past his marker and slotted the ball into the bottom corner. Valencia led 1‑0 into the break, holding 54 % possession and a 70 % pass‑completion rate.
Second Half – Getafe’s Response and Valencia’s Late Cure
Key Moments
Getafe switched to an attacking 3‑5‑2 and equalised in the 55th minute when Luis Cortés converted a low cross from Rubén Sanchez. The match remained level until the 78th minute, when Kevin Moya surged down the right wing, crossed to José Luis Gómez, and the striker headed home for a 2‑1 lead. Getafe pressed late, but a header from Ramos hit the bar in the 89th minute, securing Valencia’s win.
Post‑Match Analysis
Key Performers
- Julián Araujo (Valencia) – Man of the Match; 2 assists, 84 % passing accuracy.
- Kevin Moya (Valencia) – 78 % passing, 3 key passes, assist for the winning header.
- Luis Cortés (Getafe) – Scored the equaliser, recorded 7 shots (3 on target).
Statistical Snapshot
- Possession: Valencia 54 % – 46 % Getafe
- Shots (on target): Valencia 9 (5) – 8 (4) Getafe
- Corners: Valencia 6 – 5 Getafe
- Fouls: Valencia 12 – 14 Getafe
Valencia’s higher conversion rate highlighted their efficiency, while Getafe’s defensive lapses were exposed by rapid counter‑attacks.
Implications for the Relegation Battle
Valencia’s Position
Before the match, Valencia sat 18th, just one point behind the safety zone. The win moves them to 17th, three points clear of relegation, and restores confidence ahead of critical fixtures against Alavés and Espanyol.
Getafe’s Situation
Getafe remains in mid‑table at 11th place, still within reach of a European‑qualification spot. The defeat stalls their progress but leaves them five points behind the Europa League places, prompting a focus on tightening the back line.
Looking Ahead
Valencia’s Next Fixture
Valencia travel to face Alavés on 26 January. Maintaining defensive solidity and the attacking spark from Araujo and Moya will be essential to avoid slipping back into the relegation fight.
Getafe’s Upcoming Match
Getafe head to Sevilla on 29 January. A more aggressive approach and reinforced defensive organization will be key to reclaiming momentum.
Final Thoughts
The 2‑1 victory showcases Valencia’s resilience under pressure, turning a prolonged slump into a vital step toward safety. While Getafe’s ambitions to climb higher were tempered by defensive errors, both teams have clear pathways forward as the 2025‑26 La Liga season intensifies.
