Musacchio saves a point at the RCDE Stadium

Caicedo struck first

The match had only just begun and RCD Espanyol were already in the lead. Caicedo, with an excellent individual piece of footwork, beat Areola with a low shot at the third minute of the contest. This was the Ecuadorian footballer's sixth goal of the season, kicking off a thrilling game.

Trigueros returns fire

After the initial setback, Villarreal sought the equalizer. But no such luck. Espanyol, however, kept control of the ball and got the best chances. Caicedo almost followed through on a cross from the wing that surely would have meant a second goal for Espanyol. Nothing further from the truth. Shortly after this chance, Trigueros tied the game, finishing off a left heel from Soldado with a low shot tight to the post.

 

Burgui and Denis Suárez

These Espanyol and Villarreal players were the stars of their respective teams. The former was one of the men behind the goal that put Espanyol in the lead before halftime, executing a great cross from the wing, which Gerard Moreno put in the back of the net. Earlier, a blistering shot from Burgui from the edge of the area would have put another point on the board, had it not crashed into the post. Meanwhile, Villarreal's best chances came from the boots of Denis Suárez. The first 45 minutes ended with a home lead, as well as some bad news, since Caicedo had to be carried off injured.

53' | 2-1 | Buena doble oportunidad para el RCDE. Primero Gerard desde lejos y luego Asensio remata flojo en el área #RCDE #ESPvVIL

— RCD ESPANYOL OFICIAL (@RCDEspanyol) January 23, 2016

RCD Espanyol keep up the pace

Despite the lead, the Galca led team did not let up. The teamwork between Marco Asensio, Gerard Moreno and Burgui threatened Areola's plans. Between the three players, they created their team's best chances.

 

Heart stopping finale

Like the whole game, the finale was fast and intense. After 42 minutes, Musacchio headed a corner into the back of the net, putting a draw on the scoreboard. Villarreal, with this tie, have managed eight consecutive matches without a loss. Meanwhile, victory continues to elude Espanyol.