19 September 2005, by Tom Kundert

Miguel enjoys explosive debut at Valencia

Valencia 2-2 Deportivo La Coruña

Former Benfica right-back Miguel could hardly have wished for a more impressive debut for his new club Valencia.

In his first match for the Spanish outfit, Miguel scored a spectacular volley to put his team 2-1 up near the end of the match against Coruña. Despite the disappointment of conceding a late equaliser the Valencia fans were left enthusing about the Portugal international’s display.

The Spanish press heaped praise on the right-back’s performance, extolling his attacking contributions that proved a constant threat for the Coruña defence.

Deportivo scored first on 24 minutes but Valencia equalised from the penalty spot immediately after half time. On 79 minutes Miguel connected perfectly with a cross-field pass to send the ball rocketing into the top corner, only for Sergio to make it 2-2 shortly afterwards.

Before the final whistle Kluivert had the chance to snatch victory for Valencia after another superb cross from Miguel, but fluffed his shot.

Valencia’s other two Portuguese players, Marco Caneira and Hugo Viana were unused substitutes. The draw gives Valencia five points from their opening three matches.