Renato Veiga’s late equalizer for Villarreal helped them secure a point against Juventus after trailing deep intothe second half. Villarreal now boasts of nine unbeaten home games in the competition.
The Yellow Submarines had only won two of their last 12 UEFA Champions League games at Estadio de la Ceramica going into this game. However, they had a great start which was much needed against the Italian side. Spurred on by the home crowd, they mounted immense pressure in the opening minutes of the game which resulted in a goal in the 18th minute as Nicolas Pépé’s cutback was swept into the bottom corner of the post by Georges Mikautadze, getting his first ever Champions League goal.
Marcelino’s men now with building momentum came just a tad away from doubling their lead five minutes later when Alfonso Pedraza had his powerful shot at goal tipped onto the upright by Perin. Juventus soon picked up as Weston McKennie saw a couple of chances which were foiled by Arnau Tenas.
With four minutes on the clock after the second kickoff, Lloyd Kelly flicked a long-throw from McKennie onto the path of Gatti who redirected with a bicycle kick towards goal, leveling for the visitors. Juventus soon found a second goal through substitute Francisco Conceição who was able to capitalize on Dani Parejo’s misplaced pass and finish coolly.
The now stunned Villarreal almost went two down when Jonathan David came close but was only able to sink a shot at the bar. The effect of David’s Miss were later felt lay in the game as the Yellow Submarines were able to clinch an equalizer through a corner-cross from Akhomach which was directed by Veiga’s header into the net.
Next Fixtures
Villarreal will redirect their focus to the Spanish La Liga this weekend where they will pay a visit to Estadio Santiago Bernabao to take on Real Madrid who are just two points above them on the league standings.
The Italian side will revert back to the Serie A to host league leaders AC Milan at the Allianz Stadium.
