Napoli returns to challenge Villarreal in the Champions League, evoking a memorable night from fifteen years ago. In 2008, the Neapolitan team managed to beat the Spaniards 2‑0 in Sao Paulo, with Hamsik and Cavani deciding the match, and also 2‑0 in Villarreal, guaranteeing access to the round of 16 in a group containing Bayern Munich and Manchester City. These victories remain Napoli's only victories in the six previous meetings against the "Yellow Submarine".
Since then, the comparisons between the two teams have been more sparkling for Villarreal. In the Europa League, Napoli were eliminated in 2010-11 after a 0-0 draw at home, with Giuseppe Rossi leading the Spanish comeback. In 2015-16, the Spaniards won 1-0 at home and the second leg ended in a 1-1 draw, with Hamsik leading Napoli to an equalizer in Pina, but failing to overcome Villarreal. The Neapolitan club also faced Arsenal in that same season, trying to make up for the defeat.
Now, Napoli is preparing to play De la Cerámica again, with the need to make up ground after the defeat against Arsenal on the first day of the Champions League. As in 2011, Allegri's team will have to face both Manchester City and Villarreal, continuing to fight to advance in a competition that presents major obstacles in the coming weeks. The sweetest memory remains that of fifteen years ago, when a victory in Spain opened the doors for Napoli to the round of 16.