Sevilla secured a record-extending seventh Europa League title on Wednesday, after beating Roma 4-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout, at the Puskas Arena in Budapest.
Gonzalo Montiel, who converted the winning penalty for Argentina in the World Cup final, scored the deciding spot-kick.
The Europa League specialists, condemned Roma manager, Jose Mourinho, to his first European final loss, having won on five previous occasions.
“I have to fight for these lads and therefore, not say objectively that I will remain,” Mourinho told Sky Italy in the aftermath of the defeat. “I lost this one, but I return home prouder than ever this time.”
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The furiously contested encounter, where more yellow cards were issued to coaching and technical staff on both sides than players, went to extra time after Gianluca Mancini’s own goal cancelled out Paulo Dybala’s well-taken opener before Sevilla won in the shootout.
Just like Roma, Sevilla has endured a tough domestic campaign, marred by relegation fears until recently, but with this victory, the continental competition seems to be their Mecca.
(Editor: Ifeanyi Mark)
