Levante UD returned empty-handed from the Estadio de la Cerámica on May 2, 2026, after a resounding 5-1 defeat against Villarreal CF. The match, which secured the home team's qualification for the Champions League, was marked by a chaotic development and up to three forced substitutions in the Granota ranks due to physical issues, significantly diminishing the Valencian club's chances.

From the outset, Villarreal CF showed great aggression in attack, seeking an early goal with a shot by Comesaña that hit the crossbar. The Levante UD players had to remain very alert in defense. However, the Granotas also had their opportunity when a cross from Pablo Martínez was headed by Iván Romero, but Pau Navarro cleared the ball off the line. A significant setback occurred around the half-hour mark when Carlos Álvarez was forced to leave the field due to a left ankle injury.

With possession back in their hands, Villarreal CF once again set their sights on the Granota goal and found it in the 37th minute, thanks to a cross-shot from Mikautadze that made it 1-0. Despite the blow, the Levante UD players showed their fighting spirit and gave their all to try to equalize before halftime, though without success.

After the break, Levante UD had to make another change due to Iván Romero's physical discomfort. Despite the adversities, the Azulgranas maintained their efforts to score, and five minutes into the second half, a great team play initiated by Pampín culminated in a goal after a cross from Pablo Martínez and a precise finish by Carlos Espí, leveling the score at 1-1.

The "Groguet" team quickly reacted and pressed again in search of another goal. They succeeded in the 61st minute with a powerful shot from outside the box by A. Moleiro, and minutes later, Mikautadze scored again, extending the lead to 3-1. This third goal dealt a blow to the morale of the Levante players, but they did not give up.

Roger Brugué, playing his first minutes after recovering from a knee injury, hit the crossbar, and Etta Eyong troubled Arnau Tenas with a header. Just when it seemed that Levante UD was closer to scoring, Buchanan made it 4-1. In the final moments of regulation time, Pepe scored the last goal for the home team. Olasagasti and Roger Brugué himself had their chances during injury time, but the match concluded without further changes to the scoreboard.