Despite controlling possession throughout the entire match, Villarreal failed to continue their winning start to the Europa League as the LaLiga team slipped to a 0-0 draw against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Israel.

Such a disappointing result away from home made an already tumultuous week that much worse, after former coach Fran Escriba had been dismissed on Monday following the 4-0 defeat to Getafe.

The visitors were comfortable throughout the match but simply couldn't break down a resolute Israeli defence, Villarreal had 11 shots but only three were on target.

Jordi Cruyff was the familiar face in charge of the Tel Aviv club, the former Manchester United midfielder will undoubtedly be content with a draw against the obvious group favourites.

Fortunately for Villarreal, the result doesn't necessarily impact their fortunes in the wider scheme of the group, Slavia Prague could only manage a 1-1 draw earlier on Thursday evening and sit level with the Spanish side on four points.

Javi Calleja will now have to find a rhythm working with the team, Thursday's result wasn't the most auspicious of starts, but he will find encouragement in how confident his team looked in possession.