In a tight and intense match in the Balearic Islands, Ureña came on in the 57th minute and needed barely any time to make his mark. Five minutes after entering the field, the Dominican had already found the net twice, turning the match on its head and setting up a victory that allowed Ibai Gómez’s side to claim its fourth consecutive win.
The first goal came after an unorthodox layoff from Edu Espiau inside the Ibiza penalty area. Ureña collected the ball to beat the opposing goalkeeper and open both the scoring and his personal account. Shortly afterward, the winger once again appeared in the right place to collect the goalkeeper’s rebound after a shot from Espiau and complete his brace.
The performance represents another step forward for a footballer who has been gaining prominence as the matchdays have gone by. Ureña did not play a single minute on the opening matchday, but he has gradually carved out a place in Ibai Gómez’s plans. Against Cartagena, he had already made his first major contribution with an assist for Jardí’s winning goal and, one matchday later, he took another step forward with two goals that proved decisive in Ibiza.
THE IMPORTANCE OF IBAI
In addition, the winger has a special connection with Real Zaragoza’s current coach. Ureña had already worked with Ibai Gómez during his time in the Dominican Republic’s youth ranks. "Ibai has been very important, and I know how his teams play and what he wants from each player. From the first time we spoke, I knew he helps his players improve, and now, at 23, that is what I need for my career," Ureña himself said at his presentation as a Zaragoza player.
The Zaragoza winger is now in contention for the award for best player of the fifth matchday alongside Txus Vizcay of Athletic Club B, David Navarro of UD Logroñés and Esteban Aparicio of Alcorcón. His brace in Ibiza has thus put him in the running for an award that would represent further recognition of his growing importance in Ibai Gómez’s team.
