Villareal confirmed progress since Marcelino García returned to the dugout after a convincing win over Panathinaikos that secured a place in the next round of the Europa League with two group games remaining.
Despite taking a 3-0 lead as the second half began, the Castellón side failed to press home their advantage, with defensive lapses inviting pressure. A victory next week would secure top spot in the group during their trip to Rennes, while La Cerámica faced a postponed clash against a subdued Maccabi Haifa.
Marcelino’s squad knew one more win would seal qualification. Their performance against Panathinaikos was marked by intensity and precision, delivering a result that put them within reach of advancing and the chance to continue competing in Europe.
Villarreal controlled much of the early possession, looking for openings from the outset. Comesaña nearly opened the scoring with a header that narrowly missed the target as the momentum swung in their favor.
The visitors’ defense came under growing stress as Villarreal’s advantage grew, though Rubén Pérez’s long-range effort tested Reina and sparked questions about the goalkeeper’s form.
Panathinaikos grew into the game in the opening phase of the second half, and for about 15 minutes they pressed high, attempting to pry the ball from Villarreal and push into dangerous regions. The ball rarely found its intended target, due to Villarreal’s stubborn defense and the team’s discipline on recovery.
Morales forced a long-range attempt that kept Panathinaikos at bay, but Ilias Amokach broke through on the left with a dazzling solo run that created space for Baena. The Almerian forward then beat Helena with a refined touch that opened the scoring for Villarreal.
A moment captured by fans and commentators alike showed a spectacular sequence as the ball left the net and Villarreal fans celebrated on social media, highlighting the moment as a key turning point in the match.
Villarreal extended their lead shortly after when Morales found space in the penalty area and delivered a shot into the corner after a precise break, with Comesaña finishing clinically to seal the strike.
Panathinaikos eventually crumbled as Villarreal rediscovered their rhythm and method. The home side rotated the ball with purpose, showcasing the ball-control style that has defined their play in recent seasons under Marcelino.
Parejo dictated the tempo, transforming the field into a moving circle of passes and options. The possession-based approach drew cheers from supporters who relished the rhythmic build-up and patient probing that opened up spaces for teammates.
Only Rubén Pérez momentarily disturbed the pattern with a rare attempt from midfield, which Reina saved comfortably.
Panathinaikos opened the second half with risk-taking, but their venture forward proved futile when Baena intercepted a defensive mistake and fed Morales, who maintained his productive relationship with the goal by striking at will.
Having established a comfortable cushion, Villarreal invited the Greek side to attack while retaining a compact shape at the back. The visitors pressed relentlessly, but Villarreal’s organization and composure kept them mostly at bay.
Aitor Cantalapiedra nearly added another goal when his effort narrowly missed the target after a VAR check suggested a potential offside. Palacios followed up by beating Reina after collecting Ioannidis’ rebound, briefly rekindling Panathinaikos’ hopes.
In quick sequence, Cantalapiedra had a golden chance to extend the lead, firing toward the empty net but failing to convert as the game stayed alive for a few more frantic moments.
Marcelino then introduced fresh legs in a bid to halt the momentum, yet Panathinaikos found renewed energy and reduced the deficit through Ioannidis with ten minutes remaining.
Despite the renewed pressure, Villarreal withstood the Greek attacks and had several opportunities to avert a tense finale. Reina made crucial saves from Gerard Moreno, Alberto Moreno, and Brereton to preserve the win and remind supporters of the team’s resilience.
The result left Villarreal on the cusp of qualification, with the manager’s trust in his squad and the tactical plan paying dividends as the campaign progressed. It demonstrated the team’s ability to combine moments of sharp attacking intent with disciplined defense and effective game management.
The victory reinforced Villarreal’s standing in the group and underscored the squad’s readiness to contend on multiple fronts this season, as they continue to chase success in Europe and domestically.