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Villarreal Fell Short as Marseille Advances in The Europa League
Villarreal bid farewell to the Europa League after coming close to pulling off a miracle against Olympique de Marseille, which they had on the ropes in the final minutes. However, a goal from Clauss in injury time woke the Castellonense team from the dream of a comeback that was much closer than expected.
Marcelino's team, who needed to overturn a 4-0 deficit from the first leg, played a great game and reached the final minutes with a 3-0 lead on the scoreboard. They had several chances to force extra time, but encountered an inspired Pau López in the French goal.
Villarreal's coach opted for an attacking lineup, with Guedes, Gerard Moreno, and Sorloth up front, against a conservative Olympique side missing their top scorer, Aubameyang.
Contrary to expectations, the Castellonense team did not start with dominant play, needing a few minutes to gain momentum and control the game.
The first chance came from the French team, with a free-kick from Varetout that Jorgensen deflected for a corner. As time went on, Villarreal adjusted their game and began to create danger, with Guedes and Gerard Moreno creating opportunities.
The first goal came from a header by Capoue after an excellent cross from Kiko Femenía. This ignited the fans and energized Villarreal, who continued to press for a second goal.
Olympique decided to attack after Villarreal's goal, and Kondogbia came close to equalizing with a shot against the post. However, it was Villarreal who continued to search for the goal until halftime.
In the second half, the French team strengthened with substitutions, but Villarreal scored again with a goal from Sorloth, assisted by Guedes and validated by VAR.
Despite the goal, Villarreal did not give up and continued to press. They scored the third goal with a header from Mosquera, but failed to level the tie in the final minutes, despite attempts from Morales and Gerard Moreno.
A goal from Clauss, assisted by Aubameyang, sealed the tie in favor of Olympique.