Substitute forward Yoane Wissa delivered a double, securing a 2-1 comeback win for Matthias Jaissle's Newcastle United in a pre‑season friendly against a ten‑man Valencia at the iconic Mestalla. The match, which could have been marred by a serious incident, instead turned into a showcase of resilience and tactical adjustment. The first half took a dramatic turn when Valencia midfielder Jose Gaya executed a reckless tackle on Newcastle winger Anthony Elanga. The challenge was severe enough to see Elanga stretchered off, prompting a heated exchange between the two squads.
Fortunately, the Swedish international escaped with only a shin contusion and was able to stand and walk shortly after the incident. Jaissle, addressing the media after the game, expressed relief: "It looks like it isn’t serious, which is a huge relief.
I hope he can be ready for next week’s fixtures." He added that his initial fear of a major injury had faded thanks to reassuring medical reports. The early goal for Valencia came in the fifth minute when Filip Ugrinic struck a stunning opener, putting the Spanish side ahead and giving Jaissle a challenging start to his tenure in the Magpies' dugout. However, the German coach made decisive halftime changes that altered the complexion of the game.
New arrivals Bazoumana Toure and Sean Steur were introduced, injecting fresh energy and creativity into the Newcastle attack. The turning point arrived in the 52nd minute when Wissa capitalised on a defensive lapse to equalise.
The 29‑year‑old Frenchman, a summer signing, pounced on a loose ball inside the box and slotted it home with composure. Just over twenty minutes later, Toure demonstrated his work‑rate by breaking free down the left flank, delivering a precise pass to Wissa, who calmly finished the move with a tap‑in to put Newcastle ahead. The goal not only completed the comeback but also highlighted the growing chemistry between the new signings and the existing squad. In the dying moments, Jacob Murphy attempted to add a second assist for Toure, crossing from the right, but his delivery was only partially on target.
Nevertheless, the victory provided a morale boost for a team that had recently lost captain Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal. Jaissle’s side will now turn their attention to the next pre‑season test against Everton in Edinburgh, a match that will further gauge the progress of the squad.
Sky Sports correspondent Keith Downie summed up the atmosphere at the Mestalla: "A positive finish to a busy week in Spain for Newcastle, with Jaissle lifting the so‑called ‘Orange Cup’ in his first match in charge. The new faces—Aladji Bamba, Sean Steur and Bazoumana Toure—showed promising signs, and the travelling supporters left with smiles on their faces. Wissa’s performance was a standout; after a difficult previous season, his £55 million investment appears to be paying off, especially after a solid showing at the World Cup.
This could mark a fresh start for the striker." Jaissle’s post‑match remarks reflected a measured optimism. He praised the medical staff for confirming there were no serious injuries, particularly regarding Elanga.
"The most important thing is that everyone is fit," he said. He also noted that winning helps build confidence, especially after a demanding training camp. "The players gave everything in each session; their commitment was evident," Jaissle added. He stressed the need for balance, reminding everyone that the match was a friendly and that the locker room would not be turned into a celebration hub.
"We deserve a couple of days off, then we get back to work. Pre‑season is about preparation, not just results." Looking ahead, Jaissle emphasized that the victory should not lead to complacency.
"We will analyse what we did well and where we need to improve. The journey has just begun, and we must stay focused on development rather than resting on a single win," he concluded. The coaching staff plans to fine‑tune defensive organisation and attacking patterns before the season proper begins, ensuring that the squad can build on this encouraging start while remaining grounded.
Overall, the encounter at the Mestalla offered a blend of drama, tactical insight, and a glimpse of what Newcastle United may look like under Jaissle’s leadership. The combination of Wissa’s decisive goals, the impact of new signings, and the team’s ability to respond to adversity bodes well for the upcoming campaign, provided the club continues to manage player fitness and integrate its latest acquisitions effectively.