Villarreal’s second participation in Europe came in 2003, again in the Intertoto Cup. The Yellows started in the third round against Italian side Brescia, with a good result in the first leg (2-0) and a draw in the second (1-1).

In the Semi-finals, the Submarine measured up against Brno from Czech Republic, drawing 1-1 on Czech soil and winning comfortably at El Madrigal 2-0. Villarreal were on the verge of winning their first European title.

The grand Final of the tournament saw the Yellows go head to head with Dutch side Heerenveen. The 1-2 away win was enough to give Villarreal their first European title, as the second leg finished in a goalless draw. It was an unforgettable night and one in which the Submarine also won their ticket to play in the UEFA Cup.