A good day for La Liga teams in the Europa League, Villarreal and Real Sociedad tying up their places in the next round, and Athletic Bilbao moving up to second in their group. Villarreal had some problems though before beating Astana 2-3, the Kazakhstan side taking the lead before a strike from Raba and two later on from Bakambu turned the scoreline around. The result though ensures first place in their group for Calleja’s team. Real Sociedad also qualify after a late 0-1 victory at Rosenborg, Oyarzabal getting the only goal in the ninetieth minute to set up a decider against Zenit in two weeks time for top spot in their group. Athletic meanwhile came from behind to beat Hertha Berlin 3-2, Aduríz scoring twice from the penalty spot, and Williams getting a late winner. They now visit Zorya Luhansk in Ukraine in their last match needing a draw to reach the last 32. (23.11.17)