WATCH: USMNT star Malik Tillman's double sends Bayer Leverkusen into Champions League playoffs with 3-0 win over Villarreal

Bayer Leverkusen entered the match under real pressure, knowing that a loss could have meant elimination from the competition. Tillman’s goals in the 12th and 35th minutes provided immediate relief for the German side, allowing them to control the game against a Villarreal team that had already been eliminated but was still aiming to close out its Champions League run with a positive result.

Tillman's brace, adding to the three goals he has recorded so far in the current Bundesliga campaign. The tally represents a positive step forward after a modest start to the season, during which he struggled to make a consistent offensive impact and endured a run of below-par performances in recent matches.

The playoff draw will take place on Friday, with Borussia Dortmund or Olympiacos emerging as potential opponents for Bayer Leverkusen.

Villarreal close out the second-worst group-stage campaign by a Spanish club in European Cup history, finishing with just one point. Only Villarreal’s own 2011-12 run (zero points) ranks worse. The club is reported to have signed USMNT right back Alex Freeman on Monday.