MADRID: Striker Cedric Bakambu scored twice as Villarreal defeated Sporting Gijon 3-1 in the Spanish league on Friday, keeping alive its slim hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.

Villarreal was within five points of fourth-place Sevilla and third-place Atletico Madrid, who are level on points.

Sporting was in 18th place in the 20-team standings, at least six points from safety.

Roberto Soldado opened the scoring in the first half and Bakambu added both of his goals early in the second.

Douglas scored near the end for Sporting, which is winless in seven games.