Érik Lamela propels Sevilla past Juventus and into the Europa League final
Erik Lamela secured a decisive goal in extra time to lead Sevilla to their seventh Europa League final
Vlahovic opened the scori
Suso equalized before Lamela's extra-time winner
Following their triumph over Leverkusen, Roma awaits Sevilla in the final
TELL ME MORE: After a thrilling 90 minutes, both teams required extra time to determine the winner. Opportunities arose for both sides during the additional period, but it was Lamela's header that made the difference. The talented playmaker, who began his career at Roma, will now face his former club in the final, marking one of his most remarkable career moments
Sevilla had the chance to secure the win in the first half, if not for the exceptional saves by Wojciech Szczesny, who thwarted their attempts. However, Vlahovic gave Juventus a 2-1 aggregate lead with a chip over Yassine Bounou. Shortly after, Suso responded by smashing the ball into the net from a distance of 20 yards. In extra time, Lamela emerged as the hero by meeting Bryan Gil's cross with a powerful header, propelling Sevilla into the Europa League final once again
THE MVP: Lamela is not particularly known for his heading ability, but his winning goal on Thursday night suggests he should consider more aerial exploits. The winger executed a perfectly timed jump and directed Gil's cross into the far corner of the net. It concluded a flawless cameo appearance for the former Spurs player. Lamela provided a creative spark when Sevilla needed it most, and his relentless pressure on the Juventus defense proved crucial. He even won a free-kick at the end, capping off a memorable performance
Sevilla, the Europa League veterans, demonstrated their resilience once again as they staged a remarkable comeback to secure a spot in yet another final. Substitute Érik Lamela became the hero of the match, scoring a spectacular header five minutes into extra time, leading Sevilla to a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Juventus. This win secured a 3-2 aggregate triumph for the Spanish side
On 31 May in Budapest, Sevilla will aim for an unprecedented seventh Europa League title as they face Roma in the final. In their semi-final, José Mourinho's team drew 0-0 against Bayer Leverkusen, ensuring a 1-0 aggregate victory
Initially, Juventus seemed to be on track to reach the final after substitute Dusan Vlahovic scored a neat finish in the 65th minute at the lively Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium. However, Sevilla's midfielder Suso quickly equalized with a stunning long-range strike just six minutes later, leading the game into extra time. The decisive moment came when former Tottenham player Lamela leapt in a crowded penalty area and unleashed a towering header that found the back of the net, sparking jubilation among the fans
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