The Yellow Submarine put up a clinical display to ensure a spot in the quarterfinals of Europe’s elite competition
Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze came off the bench to help Villarreal secure a place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League after they defeated Juventus 3-0 at the Allianz Stadium.
After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, the victory ensured that Villarreal would claim the tie 4-1 on aggregate.
The Yellow Submarine faced a tricky tie in Turin after their 1-1 stalemate in the first leg two weeks ago.
The Old Lady started the game on top, keeping the bulk of possession. They registered four shots on target in the first half alone. However, they could not utilise their chances, as Villarreal held out for a goalless first half.
Juventus started the first half in the same way they began the first. Still, the Yellow Submarine were dogged on the night.
After 64 minutes of action, Villarreal gaffer Unai Emery opted to add some bite to his attack. He introduced Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze into the game at the expense of Yeremi Pino.
Chukwueze’s introduction was all that was needed to spark the game to light. Within just 14 minutes of his introduction, Villarreal won a penalty after Francis Coquelin was fouled in the box. And Gerrard Moreno was at hand to fire the spot-kick home to give the Yellow Submarine the lead.
Chukwueze looked very lively on the night, and he also helped defensively as Villarreal dropped back, hoping to catch the Old Lady on the counter.
Villarreal found joy again on the 85th minute, as Pau Torres pounced on a pass from Serge Aurier to fire home, giving Emery’s lads a 2-0 advantage.
The icing was then put on the Villarreal cake as Matthijs de Ligt handled the ball in the box, gifting the Yellow Submarine another penalty. Arnaut Danjuma took no prisoners and slammed it home to secure the 3-0 victory for Villarreal.
Villarreal will know their opponents in the quarterfinals of the UCL after the draws on Friday.
