Historically, La Liga clubs have fared better in European contests, and when Sevilla’s name joins the Europa League in the same sentence, the result is often a compelling football story. In what stands as one of Sevilla’s tougher seasons, the team found a resounding statement of authority with a 3-0 victory over PSV in the first leg of the round of 32. The win set a tone for what followed, showing resilience after a difficult domestic campaign and a rough start to the season.
With the calendar pressing forward, coach Jorge Sampaoli celebrated a controlled performance that mixed patience with sharp finishing. PSV, guided by a legendary Dutch presence, displayed an early sting that hinted at trouble for Sevilla. Yet the Andalucian side responded decisively, constructing a performance that underscored their experience in European nights and their depth when the pressure rose.
bonus is always
Sevilla avoided a dramatic fall and continued to press for success on multiple fronts. In a season where individual rewards spark conversations, goalkeeper Yassine Bono earned praise for keeping a challenging campaign on track, resisting fatigue and turning challenges into momentum. The Zamora conversation also resurfaced as fans and pundits judged the team’s defensive resilience across the league and continent. On the attacking side, a forward line led by Ousmane Nianzu, with Seville’s attackers probing with intent, showed a blend of creativity and composure.
⚽ Goal from En-Nesyri!
The delivery from Jesús Navas is a true treat
SEV 1-0 PSV
#EuropaLeagueEnGol
— PLAY GOAL (@Goal) February 16, 2023
Sevilla, facing a moment of challenge, saw a shift in leadership as Fernando stepped in to steady the defense and midfield. The squad’s direction benefited from the steady presence of veterans and the fresh energy of younger players who had work to do after a lean run. The team’s growth in energy and tempo became evident as the match progressed, with key sequences delivering both pressure and poise at the right moments.
Ocampos’ contribution becomes a story of renewal and resolve.
SEV 2-0 PSV
#EuropaLeagueEnGol
— PLAY GOAL (@Goal) February 16, 2023
That moment of brightness reflected the broader arc of Sevilla’s season, a squad capable of lifting itself after rough patches. Monchi’s long-term blueprint—trust in the club’s academy, smart reinvestment, and a clear idea of how to compete in Europe—continues to bear fruit as the campaign unfolds. A sense of togetherness and tactical clarity allowed the side to convert opportunities into goals, reinforcing the belief that the team’s best football emerges in moments of collective drive and strategic patience.
Realizing the fatigue and the contest’s rhythm, Sánchez Pizjuán remained a difficult arena for opponents. The home base provided a platform for the squad to maximize strengths, with a relentless pursuit of balance between defense and attack. The synergy found in the middle of the park—where Rakitic, Gudelj, and their colleagues translated possession into purposeful pressure—helped Sevilla control the tempo and pin PSV back at key moments. When the Dutch side did threaten, the Sevilla defense answered with a composed and coordinated response that underscored the team’s continental experience.
Data sheet:
3 had Sevilla: Bono; Nianzou, Badé, Fernando, Gudelj, Acuña; Oliver Torres, Jordán, Rakitic, Bryan Gil, Ocampos; En-Nesyri, Suso.
0 for PSV Eindhoven: Benitez; Teze, Ramalho, Branthwaite, Van Aanholt; Til, Sangaré, Veerman; Saibari, Luuk de Jong, Simons.
Goals: 1-0 En-Nesyri, 2-0 Ocampos, 3-0 Güdelj.
Referee: Radu Petrescu (Romania). He cautioned Gudelj and Lamela during the match.
Event note: The first leg of the Europa League knockout round took place at Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán in front of a near thirty-thousand crowd, including a few Dutch supporters. A moment of silence honored the earthquake victims in Syria and Turkey, signaling the competition’s broader sense of community beyond sport.