Villarreal 0-1 FC Salzburg: Early Svento Goal Enough For Austrians

Villarreal 0-1 FC Salzburg - Lineup/Stats
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Villarreal and Salzburg had already booked their tickets in the last 32 of the Europa League even before the final round of group games, with the impressive Austrian side confirmed of top spot and the Spaniards in second place.

But both sides still had something to play for. El Submarino had a three-and-a-half year unbeaten home record in Europe to protect while Salzburg were looking to finish the group stage with a 100% record.

And with the host fielding a slightly weakened team, Red Bull took full advantage and steamed into the lead after just six minutes when Dusan Svento latched onto Simon Cziommer's pass from the left flank and drilled in a low left foot drive from a tight angle past Villarreal's back-up goalkeeper, Xabi Oliva.  

Nilmar Ernesto Valverde's men looked uninspired and they were unable to respond. It took until the 30th minute before they could create their first real chance of the game. Joseba Llorente was put through on goal but he failed to beat Salzburg custodian Eddie Gustafsson in a one-on-one.

Neither side could produce any further excitement for the remainder of the half, as both goalkeepers were only tested from set-pieces and half decent crosses.

The Yellow Submarine made a bright start to the second period and it was clear to see they were intent on avoiding a shock home defeat. Nilmar brought out a fine stop from Gustafsson just three minutes into the restart and right on the hour mark, Damian Escudero saw his stunning in-swinging corner bounce off the woodwork at the back post.

Disappointed, Escudero tried his luck again moments later, this time from a more straightforward shot 20 yards out which just sailed wide.

Villarreal were well in control of proceedings and Valverde introduced Giuseppe Rossi into the mix on 70 minutes, but disappointingly, they failed to build on their momentum and capitalize on their domination.

The Italian, to his credit, did look threatening playing off the right flank and creating some anxious moments for the Salzburg defense. But even he couldn't inspire his side to a comeback as the visitors started closing up shop as the clock ticked down.

The Austrians barely mustered another shot other than their goal but it was the shot that mattered most in the end as Villareal's 12-game unbeaten streak at home in European competition came to an end.

KS Leong, Goal.com

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