Sparta Prague goalkeeper David Bicik has apologised for the mistake that gifted Villarreal their opening goal this evening.

Bicik took too long over his clearance in the third minute and by the time that he had decided to kick the ball to safety, Cedric Bakambu had closed in and the ball cannoned off the Villarreal striker and flew into the back of the net.

The 35-year-old went on to make a string of saves during his side's 2-1 loss, yet he has still issued an apology.

"I am sorry for my mistake, there´s no excuse for that. I made a wrong first touch then did not see the player," he told reporters.

"I know I made a few saves, but still I am sorry for the mistake that came in the worst moment."

The second leg of the Europa League quarter-final tie will be played in Prague next Thursday night.