Villarreal defeat Celta and edge closer to Champions League football
Villarreal CF are just one step away from returning to the Champions League next season. The Yellows beat Celta 2-1 thanks to goals from Gerard Moreno, from the penalty spot, and Nicolas Pepe, leaving them just one point short of mathematically securing qualification for Europe’s top competition.
The Yellow Submarine were back at home after three consecutive away league matches. Since their last appearance at the Estadio de la Cerámica, where they claimed a valuable win against Real Sociedad, Marcelino’s side suffered a defeat to Girona (1-0), beat Athletic Club (0-2) and drew away to Oviedo (1-1), results that kept them firmly in third place.
Celta, meanwhile, arrived in Villarreal going through a tougher spell, having been knocked out of the Europa League and losing back-to-back league games against Real Oviedo (0-3) and FC Barcelona (1-0). Giráldez’s side were looking for a response and a prestigious win to climb back into sixth place.
With limited recovery time after Thursday’s match in Oviedo, Marcelino made several changes to his starting line-up. Arnau Tenas, Renato Veiga, Pape Gueye and Nicolas Pepe retained their places, while Alex Freeman made his first start in Yellow due to Mouriño’s absence.
The match could not have started better for Villarreal. After just 20 seconds, Moleiro was fouled in the box by Yoel Lago and the referee pointed to the spot. Gerard Moreno calmly converted to make it 1-0, giving the Yellows the perfect start.
Villarreal continued to dominate and looked dangerous exploiting space. In the 28th minute, Nicolas Pepe doubled the lead after finishing off a superb low cross from Alfonso Pedraza down the left.
The Submarine were flying in attack and solid at the back, with Arnau Tenas making key saves to keep Celta at bay. Before half-time, Villarreal could have added a third through Mikautadze, but luck was not on their side.
Celta started the second half strongly, but Villarreal quickly regained control. Gueye came close following a rebound from a Mikautadze effort.
In the 70th minute, a challenge by Pape Gueye resulted in a penalty for Celta. Arnau Tenas saved the first attempt, but the kick was retaken and this time Celta scored to make it 2-1.
With the game finely balanced, Celta pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Marcelino responded by introducing Alfon, Parejo, Cardona, Ayoze Pérez and Thomas Partey. Villarreal defended bravely, and Alfon nearly sealed the win late on.
In the end, the Yellows held firm to earn a crucial victory and move to within one point of confirming qualification for the UEFA Champions League, which they can secure next Saturday at 2.00pm.
