Sevilla experienced a devastating blow as they relinquished a promising two-goal advantage, succumbing 3-2 at home to PSV Eindhoven and bowing out of the UEFA Champions League. The defeat not only shattered their dreams of advancing but also cast a shadow over the future of coach Diego Alonso.
In a captivating showdown, the southern Spanish team displayed a stellar first-half performance, securing a lead in the 24th minute as Sergio Ramos nodded in Ivan Rakitic’s exquisite free kick. However, the joy was short-lived when Djibril Sow’s apparent goal was disallowed by VAR due to an unintentional but clear handball.
Despite the setback, Sevilla continued their offensive prowess, with Youssef En-Nesyri hitting the post and redeeming himself in the second half. The Moroccan striker capitalized on a defensive lapse by PSV, slotting the ball past a sluggish Walter Benitez.
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The turning point occurred in the 66th minute when Lucas Ocampos received two quick yellow cards, reducing Sevilla to 10 men. Seizing the opportunity, PSV launched a remarkable comeback, with Ismael Saibari acrobatically finishing Sergino Dest’s cross just two minutes later.
Under mounting pressure, Sevilla faced defensive challenges, with Djibril Sow clearing off the line and goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic thwarting dangerous attempts from Joey Veerman. The tide shifted further as Nemanja Gudelj’s own goal in the 81st minute leveled the score, and Ricardo Pepi completed the stunning turnaround with a close-range header in injury time.
Adding to Sevilla’s woes, midfielder Fernando received a post-match red card, sidelining him for the crucial match against Lens. Sevilla now faces the challenge of securing a victory in Lens to advance to the Europa League knockout phase.
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–IANS
