Villarreal more proud than sad after semis loss

Villarreal`s players applaud supporters at the end of the UEFA Champions League semi final second leg football match between Liverpool and Villarreal CF at La Ceramica stadium in Vila-real. Pic/AFP

Long after the match ended, Villarreal fans stayed on their feet cheering at the La Cerámica Stadium.

There was more pride than sadness for the modest Spanish club after it came up just short of pulling off yet another upset against a European powerhouse in the Champions League.

"We were close to excellence," Villarreal coach Unai Emery said.

"We know that the fans have enjoyed it. It's a good project that allows us to experience moments like these. We needed something extra. We ran out of strength."

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