Match reports

0-1: A BIG WIN IN VIGO TO STAY IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PLACES

17/10/2021

Rafa Mir's goal puts us on 17 points in a match in which we were missing both starting centre-backs

A big three points for Sevilla FC today. The team return to winning ways following the international break, putting to bed the sour taste left after defeat at Granada. The win was all the more impressive as the team were missing their two starting centre-backs, with Augustinsson making his debut. The win came in the second half thanks to Rafa Mir's goal, making the most of a deflected Suso shot to finish past Dituro. Celta had chances earlier, but the only goal was to be Rafa's and it puts us on 17 points, in the Champions League places, with a game in hand.

The first half was devoid of many chances for both teams as they both fought over possession in the middle of the park. Celta pressed high and prevented Sevilla from playing out, while Lopetegui's men focused play down the right wing with combinations between Jesús Navas and Ocampos. Bono only had one save to make to deny Denis Suárez.

Rafa Mir's goal came minutes after Santi Mina hit the post for Celta

The second half provided the drama that was lacking in the first. Celta could have opened the scoring with a counter-attack that former Sevilla player Nolito started. Iago Aspas gave the ball to Santi Mina in the box but the striker struck Bono's right-hand post. Immediately after, Julen brought on Suso and Delaney, with the Spanish winger having a key impact in the goal that would come minutes later. Suso wriggled free from his marker, hit a shot from range and it deflected perfectly into Rafa Mir's path who made no mistake with a left-footed finish in the box.

Celta went looking for the equaliser. Nolito had a big chance from a header that went just wide of Bono's left post. Despite Celta's best efforts, Sevilla remained firm and held out for the three points and for yet another clean sheet. Action returns on Wednesday with a trip to Lille.

GAME SUMMARY

0. RC CELTA VIGO: Dituro, Hugo Mallo, Murillo, Aidoo, Javi Galán, Fran Beltrán (Galhardo, 80'), Denis Suárez, Brais Méndez, Nolito (Cervi, 72'), Mina and Aspas.

1. SEVILLA FC: Bono, Jesús Navas, Gudelj, Rekik, Augustinsson, Fernando, Jordán (Acuña, 72'), Rakitic (Delaney, 52'), Ó. Torres (Suso, 32'), Ocampos (Óscar Rodríguez, 72') and Rafa Mir (Lamela, 65').

GOALS: Rafa Mir, 55'.

REFEREE: De Burgos Bengoetxea. Yellows for Brais Méndez, Rakitic, Jesús Navas, Jordán y Aspas.