PSV Eindhoven and Sevilla squared off in an intense match during the second leg of their Europa League knockout stage playoff on Thursday, with Sevilla eventually advancing to the next round 3-2 on aggregate. The matchup was a nail-biter until the very end, with each team fighting for every inch of ground in a bid to edge out their opponent.
The first half of the game saw Sevilla seeking an early goal and dominating possession, but PSV’s defense remained resilient and held firm. The second half brought more of the same as Sevilla continued to search for that all-important break. However, it seemed like neither team was going to be able to find a way past each other until Luuk de Jong scored late in regular time for PSV to tie things up at 1-1 on aggregate.
Sevilla looked set to advance anyway due to their two away goals from the first leg, but PSV had one final trick up their sleeve. In the dying seconds of stoppage time, PSV found an equalizer with Fabio Silva poking home from close range after some great build up play from Donyell Malen who showed some real individual brilliance throughout the game. With both teams now level on aggregate at 2-2, extra time loomed large and it seemed like either side could snatch victory or progress in this thrilling encounter.
However, drama ensued as a supporter ran onto the pitch and assaulted Sevilla goalkeeper Marko Dmitrovic by punching him in the face before being wrestled down by security staff. The match was consequently halted while medical personnel tended to Dmitrovic who fortunately only suffered minor injuries and no serious harm came out of the incident.
As a dramatic red bruise emerged on his neck, Dmitrovic proclaimed to Movistar Plus in astonishment: “I have never seen anything like it!” Sevilla were awarded the win in disgraceful fashion, but their players took to the field with a Sevilla jersey draped over Dmitrovic’s shoulders as a sign of solidarity and respect.
Ultimately, Sevilla advanced to the next round 3-2 on aggregate in what was an incredibly entertaining clash between two European giants. Despite falling short at the very end, PSV put up an incredible fight and can be proud of their performance against Sevilla who will undoubtedly now go on to compete for the Europa League trophy.
After order was restored, Sevilla were given a lifeline as they advanced due to having scored more away goals during the two legs combined – thus making them victors despite PSV’s valiant effort which included wearing Sevilla’s iconic yellow jersey for much of their campaign in Europe this season. It was a dramatic finish which will surely live long in memory for both sides alike with Sevilla now progressing into yet another European clash wearing their signature Sevilla jersey.