Sevilla FC Faces Challenges Following Alavés Match

omidbasir- On Saturday, Sevilla FC managed to salvage a point against Alavés at the Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium, achieving a dramatic equalizer despite playing with ten men from the 16th minute due to Juanlu’s expulsion. The Nervión team has been losing valuable points against direct rivals, such as the Babazorros, which presents a troubling situation for the club. This latest draw has created an especially heavy aftermath for the Andalusians.

The club expects to receive, by tomorrow at the latest, the Committee of Competition’s decision regarding the sanction for Matías Almeyda, who was expelled during the match against Alavés. President José María del Nido Carrasco contacted the Technical Committee of Referees (CTA) on Sunday morning to demand respect for the institution and a “unification of criteria,” and he will file appeals against the report submitted by referee Iosu Galech Apezteguía. This marks the second time this season that Almeyda has been sent off; the first instance occurred at the Santiago Bernabéu against Real Madrid.

The match report from the encounter with Alavés is quite severe. According to the referee, Almeyda was expelled for “protesting one of my decisions ostentatiously, making loud noises and gestures of disapproval towards me, having been warned just minutes prior by assistant referee number one.” After being sent off, Almeyda allegedly refused to leave the technical area, causing a delay in the match as he had to be reminded again to vacate the bench. “He entered the playing field and positioned himself face-to-face with me at a distance of mere centimeters, in a challenging and intimidating manner… He maintained this demeanor, facing me for over a minute… He confronted the fourth official in the same previously described attitude, necessitating removal by staff members and club security.” The potential sanction could range from four to six matches. Sevilla’s legal team is awaiting the Competition Committee’s decision to explore all possible avenues.

In addition to Matías Almeyda, Juanlu Sánchez was expelled for a second yellow card in the 16th minute, and Joan Jordán received a direct red card while warming up on the sidelines. However, none of the five players who were at risk of suspension received a yellow card, allowing them to be available for the upcoming match against Getafe next weekend, which serves as a precursor to the derby. The players on the cusp of suspension include Azpilicueta, Carmona, Nianzou, Suazo, and Agoumé. Two or three of these players are regular starters for Almeyda, and their absence could disrupt the coach’s plans for the clash against Betis.