The Resilience of Sevilla: A Bilardian Approach to Adversity

omidbasir- Victor Hugo Morales, the legendary journalist who narrated Argentina’s goals during the 1986 World Cup, defined “bilardismo” as a collective approach and an obsession with achieving goals both on and off the field. This philosophy, championed by the architect of Argentina’s championship team, Carlos Salvador Bilardo, made its mark at Sevilla during the 1992-93 season when the Argentine coach left an indelible legacy at Nervión. Before the match against Alavés, the white-red squad rallied around one of Bilardo’s most memorable phrases: “The ones in red are ours.” Despite the less-than-ideal outcome, this tribute honored the essence of the Doctor’s ethos.

Matías Almeyda, who played under Bilardo at Sevilla, altered the team’s formation against an Alavés side that has historically posed challenges for the Andalusians. Including Nianzou, Sow, and Juanlu in the lineup, Almeyda arranged a 5-2-3 asymmetrical setup. At times, the defense operated with six players, bolstering support with a free man, while Azpilicueta organized continuously. In attack, Nianzou played as a winger, with forwards interchanging positions on the left flank. However, this strategy was soon disrupted.

Both Sevilla and Alavés entered the match as the teams with the highest number of fouls in LaLiga, and referee Iosu Galech, who officiated this encounter in the first half of the season, is known for issuing the most yellow cards. Just fifteen minutes in, Galech sent off Juanlu with a second yellow card due to reckless play. “The match took a different course where order became essential,” Almeyda stated. Sow had to adjust to the right flank, while Gudelj tirelessly supported both defense and midfield.

Despite being a man down, Sevilla maintained their identity, pushing forward into the opponent’s half, which left Nianzou and Kike Salas vulnerable. The French defender returned to the starting lineup after three months and delivered a solid first half, excelling in aerial duels and facilitating ball movement. Alongside him, Salas was outstanding, recording twelve clearances and proving to be Sevilla’s most in-form player at the moment.

Just before halftime, a clever throw-in from Maupay found Akor Adams, leading to Sow who cut past a defender and, with a stroke of luck, scored his third goal of the season, igniting euphoria in the stands. His attributes shine brightest when he penetrates attacking zones.

After the break, Chacho Coudet revitalized Alavés with three substitutions in midfield, successfully pinning Sevilla back and limiting their ball retention. As Sevilla became increasingly defensive, they ultimately conceded an equalizer from a corner, with Toni Martínez taking advantage of a mismatched pairing against Suazo. The Murcian caused serious problems for the local defense with his aerial threats, while Lucas Boyé missed an opportunity to turn the match in Alavés’ favor by mere inches.

Almeyda made tactical adjustments to keep Sevilla competitive, refreshing players and modifying the system. He first bolstered the double pivot with Mendy replacing Sow and then swapped out Nianzou and Maupay for Ejuke and Isaac. The formation shifted from a 4-5-1 defensively to a 2-4-3 offensively, aiming to provide support to Akor, who found himself isolated up front. The Nigerian striker faced a challenging second half, having to fend for himself.

Sevilla was fully focused on salvaging a point, with every bit of help being crucial. The late introduction of Peque, albeit somewhat delayed, offered some breathing room with the ball. Remarkably, Gattoni returned to the field to assist in defense, a sight not seen since December 2023.

If Sevilla experienced a surreal ending to their previous match, this one was no different. In the 86th minute, Iosu Galech became the center of attention when, upon the assistant referee’s recommendation, he issued a red card to Sevilla’s bench. The events were unclear, leading to Almeyda’s expulsion, though he sought explanations and resisted leaving the pitch. The stadium echoed chants of the coach’s name, reminiscent of more united times, rallying the Sánchez-Pizjuán crowd against perceived officiating injustices.

Amidst the chaos, Sevilla was determined to earn their point, exhibiting the tenacity of a team aware of the stakes at hand. The lengthy stoppage time was filled with cards, expulsions, and a style of play that eventually wore down Alavés. Ultimately, Sevilla secured a vital point, gaining a crucial edge over a direct rival, ending in a 1-1 draw. This was bilardismo in its purest form.