Villarreal strengthen fourth spot with 4–1 win over Espanyol

KATHMANDU: Villarreal secured a convincing 4–1 victory against Espanyol in La Liga on Monday, solidifying their hold on fourth place.

Both Villarreal and third-placed Atlético Madrid have 45 points, with Atlético ahead on goal difference.

Villarreal are seven points clear of fifth-placed Real Betis, boosting their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

Goals for Villarreal came from Giorgi Mikautadze, Nicolas Pepe, and Alberto Molero, along with an own goal, while Leandro Cabrera scored a consolation goal for Espanyol, who sit sixth with 34 points.