Samuel Chukwueze goes into this week's Europa League semifinal meeting against Arsenal in fine form after scoring his third goal in as many games as Villarreal were beaten 2-1 by Barcelona at the Estadio de la Ceramica on Sunday afternoon.

Today's clash against Barcelona served as a good training session before the Yellow Submarine face another ball-playing team in Arsenal on Thursday,  April 29.

De Jong and Lionel Messi came close to breaking the deadlock but it would be Villarreal that took the lead in the game after 25 minutes.

Chukwueze took advantage of the mishap in the Barcelona defence, did very well to round goalkeeper Ter Stegen and slotted home after a lovely ball in behind from Pau Torres.

Soon after Barcelona conceded the opener, they managed to respond instantly as Antoine Griezmann, with a lovely chip over the keeper, equalised in style.

Barca felt more comfortable in the game and capitalised on a defensive error to make it 2-1 and it was Griezmann again, the Frenchman confidently finished for his 18th goal of the season in all competitions.

Though Villarreal managed to improve as the second half progressed, Barcelona held onto their slender lead.

Chukwueze, who netted his fourth La Liga goal against the Catalonia side, made way for exciting teenager Yeremi Pino with a minute left.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel