Villarreal vs. Liverpool: Score, Reaction from 2016 Europa League Semi-Final

Villarreal stole a victory with the last kick of the game against Liverpool as they prevailed 1-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League semi-final match at El Madrigal in a dull affair in Spain on Thursday.

Despite the lack of action or incident, it seemed a excellent night for the Premier League side, who came to defend and avoid a negative scoreline.

The hosts did little to hurt the Reds in a lacklustre display and wasted good opportunities to obtain a bigger lead.

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp overlooked Daniel Sturridge’s claim on the loan striker role, opting for the flair of Roberto Firmino as striker, with Adam Lallana and Philippe Coutinho flanking the Brazil international.

Jaume Costa recovered from injury that kept him out against Real Sociedad to replace Antonio Rukavina at left-back for Villarreal, while Jonathan Dos Santos came in for Samu Castillejo on the right of a compact four-man midfield. 

Klopp explained why he decided to bench the England international star, per BT Sport:

Jurgen Klopp explains @DanielSturridge’s omission from the starting XI. #VILvLIV #UEL https://t.co/sRE09d8met

— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) April 28, 2016

There was an excellent atmosphere in the stadium as the match began, with an affinity apparent between both sets of supporters, as shared by BT Sport:

Classy touch from @VillarrealCF’s fans. ???? #VILvLIV #UEL pic.twitter.com/difJLocGS4

— BT Sport Football (@btsportfootball) April 28, 2016

The hosts looked bright in the opening stages as Liverpool looked to counter-attack through their full backs and midfielders.

The Reds missed a huge opportunity to take the lead in just the sixth …

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