Almeyda Reflects on Sevilla’s Recent Defeat and Team Resilience

omidbasir- Matías Almeyda held a press conference after the match between Sevilla and Levante, part of the eighteenth round of LaLiga EA Sports. Following their tenth defeat of the season, the Sevilla squad was deeply affected by a painful loss at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium. “From the outside, the game is viewed differently. We did not start as we did previously; we were caught off guard by an action that they failed to convert. However, we began to improve with ball possession and gameplay, albeit at times too rushed and imprecise, but with the necessary determination,” the Argentine explained, noting that he was unable to coach due to a suspension.

“Our pressing lacked aggression; it was rather slow, yet the opponent did not pose significant threats. We had two clear chances, one from Alexis with a header and another from Sow, but we lacked precision in our attempts outside the box. A play culminated in a goal during a time when the match should have remained level. We made improvements in the second half by pushing further up the field, primarily through crosses, where we do not excel in aerial play. We missed effectiveness, and we were aware that their system change would lead them to play long, especially during the two goals that could have been avoided.”

“We have had few penalties, and those will ultimately determine the outcomes. Alexis is one of our designated penalty takers, and he will coordinate with Isaac. I always say that the person taking the penalty bears the responsibility and desire. Sometimes goals are scored, while at other times, it’s about luck or the goalkeeper’s skill.

“Since I arrived, I mentioned that Sevilla must compete until the very last second of the tournament. I stand firm in this belief, based on what I observe every day. We need to be strong and ready for this fight. Some matches we perform excellently, in others we deserve more, and in yet others, we do not. This inconsistency has plagued the team for some time. It is the reality, and those who fail to see it have a problem. This match does not alter my perspective. Of course, I leave with a bitter taste, as the hope was to start the year with a victory at home. We must continue this battle.

“I aimed to open up the play to exploit the opponent’s weaknesses. In the second half, with two wingers and two full-backs, I believe we reached the goal area more than in the first half. I noticed Peque was fatigued; the previous week he had respiratory issues and could not continue; he expressed he felt he could not breathe anymore. Thus, that left us with one change to make and to wait until Isaac was available. These were the two offensive changes we had.

“You are also aware of the recent economic board meeting at the club. I allow the team to work without making excuses as I await the two players currently in Africa. The players here are the ones who will fight until the end. If the team can strengthen itself further, that’s beneficial; if not, there are no excuses.

“I have never singled out a specific area as problematic. The issue lies with all of us; it’s not just at the back or the front. For the ball to reach the back, it must exit the opposing area. There haven’t been actions to analyze that indicate the issue is solely at the back due to counterattacks facilitated by the opponent. In the second goal, yes, I believe the recoveries were slower than usual, but we need to focus on constant improvement. If the opponent shoots four times and scores three goals, while we shoot fifteen times and only hit the target five times… there’s a matter of finishing. Throughout my experience, I’ve learned that football is won by scoring more goals than the opponent.

“Regarding the crowd’s frustration: I did not see or comment on that. In difficult moments, when unity is strong, it is always better than division. In life, divisions lead to nothing but destruction.”