体坛英语新闻：Valencia, Wolfsburg reaches European League quarterfinals

BERLIN, March 18 (Xinhua) -- Bremen were knocked out of the quarterfinals of the Europa League after being held by Valencia to a 4-4 draw at home on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Christian Gentner sent Wolfsburg through to the quarterfinals with his late winner at extra time.

Werder Bremen's Marko Marin (L-R), Torsten Frings, Per Mertesacker and Hugo Almeida react during their Europa League last 16 second leg soccer match against Valencia in Bremen March 18, 2010.

Two minutes into the match at Weser stadium, Valencia opened the scoring with their first opportunity. Striker David Villa finished from inside the penalty area into bottom left.

Valencia doubled their lead in the 15th minute and Bremen pulled one goal back in the 26th minute through substitue Hugo Almeida.

Both teams then staged an exchange of offensive actions. Valencia was more accurate and extended the lead through Villa minutes before break. Villa utilized a long pass into path by midfielder David Silva to make it 3-1.

At the 57th minute Bremen midfielder Thorsten Frings converted a penalty kick to close the deficit after Valencia midfielder Jordi Alba fouled Bremen midfielder Marko Marin inside penalty area.