Sevilla Earns Hard-Fought Victory in Almendralejo Securing Spot in Copa del Rey Round of 32 1-2
Sevilla FC secured a narrow victory against CD Extremadura in the Copa del Rey match held in Almendralejo. The win allowed Sevilla to progress to the Round of 32, showcasing moments of emotion and skill throughout the encounter.
Emotional Tribute Before the Match
Prior to kickoff, Curro Reyes, father of the late footballer José Antonio Reyes, received a heartfelt tribute. He was presented with jerseys from both Sevilla and Extremadura in a special framed display. The emotional moment resonated with the 11,000 spectators, including 4,000 Sevilla supporters, who stood to honor the legacy of Reyes.
Match Summary
The match began slowly, with both teams testing each other’s defenses. Sevilla made a tactical change by including Joan Jordán, who had not played for 572 days. Early on, Extremadura’s Juanmi Callejón had a chance, but his attempt was off target.
- 20th Minute: Nemanja Gudelj’s powerful shot almost put Sevilla ahead.
- 60th Minute: Sevilla scored their first goal through Alfon.
- 38th Minute: Isaac Romero doubled the lead for Sevilla.
Second Half Challenges
After halftime, Extremadura responded with more vigor. Giovanni Zarfino scored for the hosts, reducing the deficit. The goal shifted the momentum of the match, as both teams aimed for further opportunities.
- Missed Chances: Róber Correa and Diego Díaz both had opportunities to equalize.
- Late Attempts: Nyland made crucial saves to maintain Sevilla’s lead.
As the match approached its conclusion, Sevilla held firm against Extremadura’s late push. Despite not playing perfectly, the team managed to secure a vital win.
Looking Ahead
This victory offers a brief respite for Sevilla, allowing them to focus on their upcoming league match against Valencia at Mestalla. The Copa del Rey match served as a crucial moment for Matías Almeyda’s squad to regain confidence as they prepare for future challenges.
Next Steps
Sevilla will await the draw for their next opponent in the tournament. The team’s performance in Almendralejo indicates the potential to improve as they move forward in both the Copa del Rey and La Liga.
