In the 50th minute, the whole of Riazor stood up. Aubameyang was among the players warming up on the touchline. Five and a half weeks after leaving the operating theatre, he was back. Smiling, with his trademark cheerful expression, he was fully focused on what was happening on the pitch. He had sped up his recovery and beaten even the most optimistic forecasts. The team needed him more than ever.
Aubameyang has something that goes beyond football and goals. Simply by stepping onto the pitch, he can put his teammates at ease while unsettling opponents. For a Deportivo La Coruña side short of attacking firepower, his goals are essential, and his leadership is even harder to replace.
He was originally expected to play only 10 minutes, but he came on with 20 minutes remaining. His rhythm had not yet returned, which was understandable. He did not touch the ball often, and he did not need to. Even as his stamina began to fade, he shook off three defenders, leapt high and headed on another excellent cross from Adama. He did not score, but he drew so much attention that no one picked up Bil Nsongo, who seized the chance to score the winner and make it 2-1.