David Albelda’s side level the match against CE Europa after trailing by three goals with just half an hour to go
Villarreal B claimed a valuable point after drawing 3-3 against CE Europa at the Mini Estadi. Albelda’s men staged an extraordinary comeback, overturning a 0-3 deficit in the final half hour thanks to goals from Diatta, Hugo López and Jean Ives Valou.
The Mini Submarine started strongly, dictating possession, but it was Europa who struck first. In the 14th minute, Arnau Campeny latched onto a loose ball in the box and set up Rubén Gómez for the opener (0-1). Just nine minutes later, Jordi Cano doubled the visitors’ advantage with a powerful effort into the top corner (0-2).
Despite going behind, Villarreal B created chances. Facu Viveros came close with a one-on-one and later with a header, but the visiting goalkeeper kept his side in front at the break.
In the second half, Europa extended their lead when Marcel made it 0-3 on the hour mark. Far from giving up, the Yellows reacted. Alassane Diatta reduced the deficit with a close-range finish from a corner (1-3). Soon after, Hugo López arrived from deep to turn in a cross from the right, where Budesca and Víctor were causing constant problems (2-3).
The comeback was completed in stoppage time when Valou fired in from the edge of the box (3-3). In the final moments, the referee awarded Villarreal B a penalty, but after VAR review it was downgraded to a free kick outside the area, denying the Yellows a chance at a remarkable victory.
