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Villarreal take control vs. Liverpool

VILLARREAL, Spain -- Three thoughts from El Madrigal where a late winner gave Villarreal a 1-0 victory over Liverpool in their Europa league semifinal first leg.

1. Late Adrian goal makes Villarreal big favourites

Adrian Lopez's injury time winner saw Villarreal beat Liverpool 1-0 on Thursday night at Villarreal's El Madrigal to take a big advantage in their Europa League semifinal.

A tight and tactical first half resulted in just a few clear chances and no goals, while the second period saw both Villarreal's Cedric Bakambu and Liverpool's Roberto Firmino hit the woodwork.

Just as it seemed the teams were heading towards next Thursday's second leg at Anfield with the tie neatly balanced, Villarreal struck in the 92nd minute and now look big favourites to make what would be their first ever European final.