Losing Against Villarreal, Marseille Still Qualified In The Europa League

Marseille lost against Villarreal but this French Ligue 1 team still qualified for the Europa League quarter-finals. (X/@EuropaLeague)

JAKARTA - Marseille lost 3-1 against Villarreal in the second match of the Europa League last 16 at the de la Ceramica Stadium, Friday, March 15, 2024 in the morning WIB. However, Marseille still qualified for the quarter-finals.

Marseille's success in winning the last eight tickets could not be separated from the big 4-0 victory won by the French Ligue 1 club in the first match.

The four-goal score made Marseille's move very light towards the quarter-finals. The reason is, Villarreal had to pursue a goal deficit. At the very least, this team from La Liga Spain needed a minimum 5-0 win to turn things around.

While appearing at home, Villarreal tried to play offensively to score. Only they had a bit of trouble breaking through Marseille's defense.

Villarreal finally managed to overcome the deadlock after scoring a goal in the 32nd minute. The goal was generated through the header of midfielder Etienne Capoue who met Kiko's pass.

But after that goal, The Yellow Submarine never increased the advantage. They were only able to break into Marseille's goal in the second half.

This time it was striker Alexander Soerloth who changed the score to 2-0 in the 54th minute. He finished the assist from Goncalo Guedes.

Villarreal is still trying to catch up with the goal. Moreover, they completely dominated the game. The advantage of the host's possession reached 63%. However, Villarreal's attack always ran aground.

The hosts were finally able to add one more goal in the 85th minute. Yerson Mosquera scored the goal. Although it was reviewed via VAR, the goal was still passed.

Villarreal actually only needed one goal to force extra time. However, instead of adding goals, Villarreal's goal conceded.

Jonathan Clauss' goal came in injury time. He finished a pass from Piere-Emerick Aubameyang.

The goal immediately dashed Villarreal's hopes. The match ended with a score of 3-1 for Villarreal. However, Marseille qualified for the quarter-finals because they won 5-3 on aggregate.