Antonio Conte’s man who have seen 9 good years without an international trophy since their Champions League win under the guidance of Jose Mourinho in 2010 were extended their trophy wait into a 10th year yesterday in a dramatic clash with Lopetegui’s Spirited Sevilla
The match which was a thrilling five goal match started with an early penalty in the 5th minute after Romelu Lukaku was fouled by Diego Carlos in the box which Lukaku converted easily to make his 34th goal this season. This was also Lukaku’s 11th concecutive Europ match scoring.
Sevilla’s front man Luuk de Jong replied by converting Jesus Navas’s and Ever Banega’s crosses with nice headers in the 12th and 33rd minute of play, handing Sevilla the lead.
Former Atletico Madrid captain, Diego Godin could not allow Sevilla to enjoy the lead for more than 2 minutes as he leveled the match 2-2.
The match remained on a standstill until the 74th minute when Diego Carlos and Romelu Lukaku encountered again with a twist of things this time.
Diego Carlos produced a wide bicycle kick which was then deflected into the net by Lukako, handing his side another year to expect a European trophy
Sevilla’s European win was their Manager, Lopetegui’s first trophy and the match being Sevilla’s 21st game without defeat since February.
Sevilla’s excellent record of never losing a Uefa Cup or Europa League final continued to six victories in six finals.
“This is a magnificent club. I hope fans can celebrate it but with caution,” said Lopetegui.
This squad are great. They believe in it, what they work on and what they transmit. Even if we hadn’t won I’d still love these guys, but today we take home the prize. We always believed