Substitute forward Yoane Wissa made the difference for Matthias Jaissle’s Newcastle United, netting two goals to secure a 2-1 comeback triumph in a pre‑season friendly against a reduced Valencia side. The match, staged at the historic Mestalla, was almost marred by a dramatic incident when Valencia’s Jose Gaya delivered a reckless, high‑impact tackle on Newcastle winger Anthony Elanga. The challenge was severe enough to see Elanga stretchered off in the first half, prompting a heated exchange between the two squads.
Fortunately for the Swedish international, medical checks later indicated that his injury was not serious. Elanga was able to stand and walk after receiving a shin contusion, and he later left the stadium on his own feet. In the post‑match press conference, Jaissle expressed relief, saying he was "relaxed" about the winger’s condition. "It looks like it isn’t a major problem, so we are pleased.
I hope it’s true and that he can be ready again next week," the German manager said. He added that his initial fear of a serious injury had faded as the club’s medical team gave a largely positive assessment. The game’s opening moments belonged to Valencia when Filip Ugrinic produced a stunning strike in the fifth minute, giving the hosts an early lead and delivering a nightmare start for Jaissle, who was still finding his footing in the Newcastle dugout.
However, the German coach made decisive half‑time changes that turned the tide. New signings Bazoumana Toure and Sean Steur entered the fray and immediately began to influence play, showcasing the depth Jaissle has added to his squad. Wissa, who joined Newcastle last summer, capitalised on a defensive lapse to level the score in the 52nd minute. His goal came after a mis‑communication in Valencia’s back line, allowing the French‑born striker to pounce inside the box.
The momentum continued when Toure, a fresh face from the club’s recent recruitment drive, broke free down the left flank, drawing the Valencia defenders towards him before delivering a perfectly weighted pass to Wissa. The striker made no mistake, tapping the ball home in the 76th minute to complete the comeback and give Jaissle a winning debut. Toure’s contribution did not stop there; he threatened to add a second assist after a superb run down the wing, but his cross was ultimately headed over by Jacob Murphy in stoppage time. The victory offered a morale boost for Newcastle, especially after the disappointment of losing captain Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal in the transfer window.
Looking ahead, Jaissle’s next pre‑season challenge will be a match against Everton at Murrayfield in Edinburgh on Wednesday, a test that will further gauge the squad’s cohesion and readiness for the upcoming Premier League campaign. Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie summed up the atmosphere at the Mestalla: "A good end to a positive week in Spain for Newcastle – and a trophy for Jaissle in his first match in charge as they lift the 'Orange Cup'. Some impressive signs from new signings Aladji Bamba, Sean Steur and Bazoumana Toure. Newcastle’s travelling fans left the stadium with a spring in their step.
One major positive was Wissa’s performance. Newcastle really need him to hit form this season. It was a £55 million investment in a 29‑year‑old, and last season was a nightmare for him.
He looks sharp and is coming off a good World Cup showing. Maybe this could be a fresh start for the striker." In his own words, Jaissle reflected on the day’s events: "First of all, I’m really happy that there are no serious injuries. Anthony, we are happy, and it seems to be okay – that was the most important thing.
Of course, winning games always helps to build confidence, but we also knew we had a tough week behind us. The players worked hard in camp; there was pure commitment in every session. We had a heavy load, so we deserve two days off now, then we start again.
It was a friendly today; we won’t smash the locker room and celebrate excessively. We’re balanced; we know what we’re about. It’s pre‑season, and we’re still working on it.
It’s a journey; we don’t want to cling to any single result. The victory is important, but we also won’t diminish the losses – we need to stay balanced in our approach. We’ll analyse the situation and develop from there, and that’s what we’ll do. Next week there are things we need to work on, definitely."