Pre-match reports

RECAPTURE WINNING WAYS AND SHOW SEVILLISTA STRENGTH

24/10/2017

The Cartagonova stadium could be the perfect stage on which to recapture winning form in our first Cup match of the season. Sevilla face an exciting opponent in the round of 32, who will throw everything they have at the tie

Elite footballers have three stages to prove themselves on this season: a normal league campaign, the Champions League and now the Copa del Rey - a trio that only the most fortunate sides enjoy. This Tuesday marks the opening match in Sevilla's Cup campaign, with Sevilla travelling to the Cartagonova Stadium to face FC Cartagena in the round of 32. On what will be a fine opportunity to play good football and score goals, the objective can be nothing other than win and recapture a good vein of form.

In what could be a zesty tie, just three days after Sevilla's latest defeat, the opportunity to regain a winning mentality and show Sevillista spirit presents itself. Berizzo's men, in what will likely be a heavily rotated squad, will have the obligation and challenge to ensure a confident step forward. A win would not only give a natural advantage in the return leg but also a lift in the squad's collective confidence.

Elite football provides immediate opportunities to change the dynamic of results

The first Cup game comes at the ideal moment for a change to the dynamic of the group as it enters into a tournament that requires speed, accurate passing and goals. This is a competition in which opponents will look to give it their best shot. The clash provides an opportunity to use players not normally relied on - players that wish to prove themselves and play a more important role in the team. For Sevilla, this is an opportunity to make changes and optimise the performance of the team.

Amongst the opponent ranks there are some ex-Sevillistas, both youth and ex-Sevilla Atlético players

FC Cartagena - like all Cup opponents from a lower division - will make up for their inferior technical ability with the hopeful anticipation that accompanies an exciting campaign at their feet. The Monteagudo team are in good shape, coming off a recent victory (0-1, goal from Álvaro) at Granada's affiliate stadium. They also boast leadership in group IV of the Second Division B. Amongst their ranks are a small proportion of ex-Sevilla players: three players originally from the Sevilla FC youth team - Moisés, Cordero and Hugo Rodríguez - who are also joined by Óscar Ramírez, who previously played for Sevilla Atlético. However, for various reasons, some will not be able to play this Tuesday.

Regardless of the excitement and effort levels of the opponent, Berizzo's side will have to fix mistakes, put their best foot forward and capture Sevillista identity in order to raise squad esteem and remind the Nervionenses that winning is in the club's DNA. That's the only way.