Villa's first Vissel Kobe goal downs Torres' Sagan Tosu

David Villa scored his first goal for Vissel Kobe to give them a 1-0 J1 League win over a Sagan Tosu side featuring Fernando Torres.

Villa, making only his second appearance in Japan's top flight after leaving New York City, swept home following a defensive mix-up 54 minutes in to secure all three points for the home side.

"I am really pleased that I scored," the former Barcelona star said after the match. "I am more pleased that it has led to three points. I had a wonderful game. I want to continue like this."

Team-mate Andres Iniesta hopes it is the first of many goals for Villa, Spain's all-time top scorer.

First goal in Japan!!! @vissel_kobe @J_League #visselkobe #rakuten #teamvos #japan #dv7group pic.twitter.com/1N2klW7Nmv
— David Villa (@Guaje7Villa) March 2, 2019

"It was a really wonderful atmosphere - I really want to thank all the supporters," said Iniesta. "It was good that Villa scored in this game. Villa will continue to bring goals to this team."

It was a disappointing outing for fellow former Spain star Torres, who has lost both of his matches for Sagan Tosu this season.

"Playing against best friends and former team-mates on the pitch is a great thing in football. However, no result came into play," he said.

@vissel_kobe #visselkobe #rakuten #teamvos #dv7group pic.twitter.com/6Y6kmBeG0R
— David Villa (@Guaje7Villa) March 2, 2019