A lot of times, when someone tells you that a game is tied 0-0 or that a game ended in a 0-0 draw, they say it with a hint of disdain in their voice. You know the tone.
"Hey Kevin, how did that game end?"
"Ugh...0-0..."
Today's UEFA Europa League matchup between Napoli and Villarreal has not been one of those 0-0 games. It's one of the rare bunch that is just as entertaining as any goal-fest. Both teams have had some good chances, both teams are defending very well, both teams are passing extremely well, and it's been an interesting tactical battle. Villarreal have done a good job of nullifying Napoli's wing backs and forcing them inside a bit, while Napoli's back three has done a good job of defending Nilmar and Giuseppe Rossi.
Giuseppe Mascara got a slightly surprising start today for Napoli, in place of Marek Hamsik and Jose Ernesto Sosa. Mascara has played well enough, but with Napoli failing to score so far in the home leg, you have to wonder how soon Hamsik is going to enter the game. When he does, the most likely candidate to come off is Mascara. That's unfortunate for him, since he's certainly been competent.
Villarreal will be satisfied with a draw on the road in the first leg, but it wouldn't be shocking to see them get aggressive and chase an away goal. Marco Ruben and Cani are their best attacking options on the bench, and both players could change the game considerably.