Valencia took a significant step towards LaLiga survival with a vital 2-0 victory over Leganes at the Mestalla, marking their first win against the visitors in six meetings.
The result brings them within a point of escaping the relegation zone in what was an early-season six-pointer.
Despite coming off a heavy Copa del Rey defeat to Barcelona, Valencia showed renewed confidence under new coach Carlos Corberan.
The high-stakes nature of the match was evident from the outset, with Leganes pushing forward aggressively but failing to seriously test Liverpool-bound goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
The breakthrough arrived in controversial fashion when the referee inadvertently blocked the ball, allowing Valencia to restart quickly. Cristhian Mosquera capitalized on the moment, meeting a bouncing cross and firing past Marko Dmitrovic for his first league goal.
Sensing their opponents’ vulnerability, Valencia doubled their advantage before halftime. Mouctar Diakhaby found the net from close range after some poor defensive play by Leganes, putting the hosts firmly in control.
Leganes, unbeaten in their last four away league matches, showed resilience in the second half but struggled to break through the host team well-organized defense. The hosts maintained possession confidently, keeping their opponents at bay while continuing to threaten on set pieces.
Diakhaby was forced off due to injury at the hour mark, but Valencia remained composed.
Mamardashvili delivered a crucial late save from a well-placed free kick, ensuring a comfortable win and one of the team’s strongest performances of the season.
With Mestalla becoming a fortress at a crucial moment, Valencia’s survival hopes remain alive as they fight to avoid a shock relegation from Spain’s top flight.
