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Late Wu Lei strike hands RCD Espanyol win against Celta
The Chinese forward finds the net in the 89th minute to earn a vital victory
RCD Espanyol took all three points at the RCDE Stadium on LaLiga Matchday 31, besting Celta Vigo thanks to an 89th minute goal from Wu Lei. The team came into the contest off the back of a controversial defeat at the hands of Real Sociedad the previous Monday, and made amends with a solid performance.
Vicente Moreno's men came out for the game eager for victory, although they were up against opponents who were determined to provide a test. The visitors threatened Diego López's goal on several occasions in the first half, as the goalkeeper returned to the squad and to the starting lineup following his recovery from injury.
In attack, Los Pericos fed off the inspiration of Sergi Darder, who was once again the player pulling the strings in midfield. Run from Javi Puado and Adri Embarba provided openings for RCD Espanyol, whilst Raúl de Tomás also came back into the team following an injury. The side's top goalscorer did not have as clear opportunities as in previous games, but nevertheless provided a presence up top.
Despite the game being goalless at half-time, there was rhythm, intensity and effort from both teams -albeit without clear scoring opportunities materialising.
Espanyol got off to a good start in the second half with two dangerous approaches in the opposing half, although without testing Celta Vigo goalkeeper Dituro too much. The Galicians responded with a clear opportunity, but Óscar Gil and Diego López conspired to clear.
In the final minutes the team tried to take a step forward. Puado was very close to scoring in a good move masterminded by Wu Lei, shooting off target. RDT, shortly after, tried with a shot from his left foot that went slightly off course.
Just when it appeared that the contest was heading for a stalemate, RCD Espanyol got their reward: Darder found Wu Lei with a pass, and the striker kept his cool to beat Dituro and hand his side the three points.