Villareal vs Arsenal Highlights: UEFA Champions League Highlights

Posted on April 7, 2009
Filed Under Arsenal, UEFA Champions League, Villarreal

Emmanuel Adebayor netted a vital away goal as Arsenal came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Villarreal in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final at El Madrigal.

The Togo striker made it three goals in two games, and five in this European campaign, with a stunning bicycle-kick after 66 minutes to cancel out an equally impressive opener from home captain Marcos Senna.

However, Arsene Wenger’s side lost both goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and centre-back William Gallas to injury during the first half, but rallied to secure what could prove to be a decisive result to defend at Emirates Stadium in the return leg.

The last time Arsenal played at this intimidating Spanish ground was three seasons ago when a dramatic late penalty save from Jens Lehmann guided them through to the European Cup final.

While that campaign ultimately ended in defeat to Barcelona, there is growing belief that 2009 could just prove the coming of age for Wenger’s young Gunners.

Villarreal have never lost at home in the Champions League and kept holders Manchester United to a goalless draw earlier this season, they were in no mood to lose that record against Arsenal.

Villarreal took the lead in stunning fashion through skipper Senna
was fed the ball in the right, the Spain international took aim and fired a wonderful 25-yard strike past Almunia into the top corner, setting El Madrigal alight.

First half was completely dominated by Villareal, but they could not double the lead. Arsenal forced some corners, they also had a free-kick awarded which was taken quickly by Fabregas, only to be denied by the referee and the Arsenal captain was handed a yellow card. The first half ended at 1-0.

Second half saw a much improved Arsernal, with some slick passing. Then in the 66 minute Adebayor scored a stunner when Fabregas lofted a high ball into penalty area, inspite of being surrounded by three defenders Adebayor collected the ball on chest before dispatching a brilliant bicycle-kick into the far corner.

It was a perfect reward for Arsenal’s endeavours and inspired the visitors to even greater domination that saw Adebayor, Walcott and Nasri all have further good chances.

Villarreal had a late flourish that restored some pride, but they never looked like scoring the winner.

Arsenal closed out a draw that, in the context of their poor start, was a fantastic result, while Villarreal will travel to the Emirates Stadium having conceded what could well prove to be a vital away goal.

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