The former Arsenal striker headed in after 41 minutes for the only goal of the two-legged quarter-final clash.

Villarreal's hopes of snatching what would have been a crucial away goal were dented when they had Pascal Cygan was sent-off for a foul on Lionel Messi.

Ronaldinho, who has been sidelined through tendinitis, played the last 15 minutes of the match and received a generous ovation from the crowd. -- AFP