Sevilla Finds Relief with Draw Against Elche

Sevilla breathes a sigh of relief after a month of turmoil. Following four consecutive defeats, including an elimination from the cup, the team found itself just one point above the relegation zone. The widespread panic transformed the match against Elche into a perceived ‘final.’ However, the reality was quite different. In the first game of the second half of LaLiga, the Sevilla squad overcame their vulnerabilities in front of goal, thanks in large part to the return of Akor Adams, who scored both goals in a thrilling 2-2 draw.

Despite the draw, Matías Almeyda retained the same starting eleven from their previous match against Celta. He once again focused on utilizing his wing-backs, particularly on the left side with Oso, who continues to stand out as one of the team’s most audacious and impactful players. Sevilla applied pressure across the pitch, prompting Elche to draw them into their territory to create spaces. The home side capitalized on an early moment of overconfidence from Agoumé, leading to a communication breakdown in their defense. Febas easily exploited this lapse to score the opening goal.

After conceding, Sevilla maintained composure and continued to take risks with their passing. They frequently attacked the flanks, delivering crosses that went without connection. Kike Salas, the standout among the center-backs, adapted well to the game context by playing long balls, though they lacked precision. As usual, Odysseas was forced to perform several saves, while his teammates squandered clear opportunities in front of goal. Sow not only missed a glaring chance but also had an overall disappointing night.

During halftime, Almeyda made tactical adjustments by substituting Juanlu and Peque for Nianzou and Akor Adams, who returned from the Africa Cup of Nations in impressive form. Although Sevilla came out with renewed vigor, they again struggled with their lack of decisiveness. After another crucial save from Vlachodimos, they conceded a second goal from a poorly cleared corner. However, instead of capitulating, they fought back against the odds.

“At times, the match became end-to-end, but it was our approach,” Almeyda acknowledged, noting that he got the substitutions right this time. The Argentine introduced more attacking flair by switching from a 5-3-2 to a 4-2-3-1 formation, moving Oso forward and bringing in Ejuke and Miguel Sierra for Sow and Isaac. The final substitution saw Suazo come on for Nianzou after a series of underwhelming performances from the Frenchman. It was Suazo who delivered the cross that Oso headed towards goal, with Akor finishing it, reducing the deficit, breaking the goal drought, and igniting some hope.

Sevilla deserved the draw based on the volume of chances created—25 shots, with 8 on target. Ejuke and Sierra combined for a play that resulted in a penalty converted by Akor in stoppage time, securing the final score of 2-2. The Nigerian returned amid skepticism but showed renewed confidence compared to his teammates.

“Remember that last year Sevilla survived by just one point, so that point deserves respect,” Almeyda emphasized, repeatedly advocating for calm. He is right, as we are only at the midpoint of the season, and he doesn’t want his team to remain in a constant state of anxiety. For now, they have lifted a burden that questioned his position and instilled belief in his players.