Villareal ensured they topped this UEFA Cup group by winning 2-1 at AEK Athens but the result in the other match ensured the Greeks also qualified.  The Spanish side were good value for their victory even if they only triumphed by a single goal.  They led at half time and had made enough chances to really put the match beyond doubt.  They seemed to be being the penalty for that when Rivaldo equalised in the second half but Tomasson restored the advantage immediately and from then on Villareal didn't look back.  Both sides would have expected to qualify from what wasn't the hardest group in the world but Villa especially will be pleased to have finished first.  AEK will now face a group winner in the knock out stages and they will need to be at their best to have a chance of going further.

The home side kept Macho in goal for a rare appearance in the UEFA Cup as he is normally given a rest on such nights but the fact he and Rivaldo both played showed how seriously this match was been taken.  Manduca was left on the bench though while Manu was rested altogether so there was still some thought being given to squad rotation.  Villareal brought in Diego Lopez to play between the sticks while Rossi and Tomasson played up front.  Tomasson has been in fine form in this UEFA campaign so it was no surprise he was used again.  Mavuba also came into the side, playing in midfield, and did well enough to grab a goal as he staked his claim for a more regular place.

The match got off to a frenetic start with Rivaldo firing just off target from the edge of the box.  But from then on the visitors took control as rossi had a good shot saved by Macho before Venta and Tomasson also went close.  The goal had to arrive when Mavuba shot past Macho but with Fernandez hitting the woodwork moments later the game could have effectively been out of sight just after half time.  Things had changed at the break though with AEK reappearing much more determined and Rivaldo curled a free kick in from distance o level the scores.  They lost concentration immediately though as substitute Franco slipped in Tomasson to make it 2-1.  AEK laboured from here but with news coming through that they would progress regardless the game died out in the closing moments.

Villareal will be very pleased with this result as few teams go to Greece and win.  This will give them a real boost and they will think they have an excellent chance of making a mark on this competition.  AEK will be happy to be in the next round but how far they progress will depend on the draw.  They are not up to taking on the top teams yet but with a bit of luck they could yet cause an upset if they play someone below the highest level.