Yassir Zabiri was the standout performer in Racing Santander's win over Elche this weekend, scoring all three of his team's goals in a thrilling 3-2 victory. According to the match report from Fox Sports, the game played on August 28 at El Sardinero solidified a positive start to the season for the Cantabrian side, who now sit tenth in La Liga with four points.
Racing Santander started with purpose and Zabiri opened the scoring in the first half. The Moroccan forward extended the lead shortly after the break, completing his hat-trick before the hour mark and making it 3-0 on the scoreboard. Elche, however, mounted a fierce comeback in the closing stages.
Brahima Sangare and Fernando Niño, the latter assisted by Tete Morente, scored in the 78th and 79th minutes respectively, cutting the deficit and creating a tense finale. José Bordalás's team pressed until the final whistle, but the Racing defense, with Julián Agirrezabala in goal, held firm. The 3-2 final score reflects a match of two very distinct halves.
This victory provides three vital points in the fight for survival and a significant morale boost. With this result, Racing Santander registers its first win of the campaign, following a draw and a loss in the first two matchdays. The team has scored five goals and conceded five, maintaining a neutral goal difference.
The next challenge is an away trip to face bottom-placed Rayo Vallecano on September 5th. A win there could propel the team into more comfortable positions in the standings.
The main short-term concern is the absence of two key players. Both Andrés Martín and Pablo Ramón are currently sidelined with injuries, and their absence was felt in the final phase of the Elche match. Their recovery will be essential to face the September schedule with confidence.
Manager José Bordalás will have to find solutions on the bench and manage minutes. The upcoming trip to Vallecas will be a tough test, despite the opponent's position. Rayo Vallecano, in 18th place, will play with the urgency of a team desperate for points. Fans can follow injury updates on our dedicated injuries page.
The Racing Santander squad now faces a week of work focused on defensive solidity after conceding two goals in just two minutes. The match against Rayo Vallecano is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, 2026.
