When Espanyol played host to Villareal at the Olympic Stadium they had one thing in mind; continuing their recent unbeaten run and reaching the coveted European places. The Catalans started well, Tamudo and Javi Garcia putting heavy pressure on the opposition. This pressure paid off in the 28th minute when Tamudo headed home a Luis Garcia free kick.

In the second half, a sleepy Villareal finally reacted. Little by little they took control of the game, and in the 53rd minute an excellent left footed shot from Forlan brought the visitors level. Having equalised, Villareal sat back, apparently content with the draw.

Espanyol again began to apply the pressure in search of the winner but it was not to be. Villareal could have taken all three points right at the end but Cani missed from inside the six yard box.