Morocco international Yassir Zabiri scored the winning goal as Racing Santander came from behind to defeat Espanyol 2-1 in La Liga on Saturday, October 24.
The 21-year-old striker struck in the 84th minute at El Sardinero, taking his tally to eight goals in ten league appearances this season.
His goal completed Racing’s second-half comeback and secured their third league victory of the campaign.
Zabiri completes Racing Santander comeback
The first half ended goalless before Espanyol took the lead through Edu Expósito in the 62nd minute.
Racing responded seven minutes later when Jeanuel Belocian equalized with a powerful left-footed finish.
With the match heading towards a draw, Zabiri capitalized on a loose ball inside the penalty area following a corner and scored from close range in the 84th minute.
The Moroccan forward’s eighth league goal gave Racing a 2-1 lead, which they maintained until the final whistle.
The victory lifted the newly promoted club to 11 points from ten matches, placing them 11th in La Liga following Saturday’s result.
Eight goals in ten La Liga appearances
Zabiri’s latest goal continues an impressive start to his first season in Spanish top-flight football.
The Moroccan has scored eight times in Racing’s opening ten league matches, placing him among La Liga’s leading goalscorers.
His contribution against Espanyol followed a productive opening two months in which he scored a hat-trick against Elche, twice against Alavés, and once each against Barcelona and Valencia.
As previously reported by Atlas Lions Insider, Zabiri had already reached seven La Liga goals in eight appearances before Saturday’s match.
Racing coach José Alberto López praised his striker after the victory, saying the club should enjoy his performances because he believes Zabiri will make a lasting impact.
The forward’s goals have become an important part of Racing’s campaign as the club adjusts to life in La Liga.
Zabiri strengthens his case for Morocco
Zabiri’s club form comes after his first involvement with Morocco’s senior national team.
He received his first call-up from Mohamed Ouahbi in September and started the Atlas Lions’ 2-0 victory over Gabon, playing 61 minutes before being replaced by Soufiane Rahimi.
His emergence has added another centre-forward option to the Morocco national-team squad.
With eight goals already this season, Zabiri is building a strong case for further international opportunities ahead of Morocco’s November fixtures.
For now, his immediate focus remains Racing Santander, where his goals are helping the club compete in Spain’s top division.
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