Sevilla Takes a commanding lead in the Copa del Rey against Espanyol
Sevilla off to a flying start in the Copa del Rey
Sevilla FC secured a 3-0 triumph over RCD Espanyol de Barcelona in the first leg of their Copa del Rey quarter-final tie at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuan Stadium on Wednesday. The dominant performance from Sevilla leaves Espanyol with a mountain to climb in the second leg.
First-half domination from Sevilla
Sevilla was in control from the outset, taking the lead through Argentinian striker Lucas Ocampos in the 14th minute. Ocampos was on hand to finish off a well-worked team move, slotting home from close range.
Sevilla continued to press for more goals and doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark. Jules Koundé, the French defender, rose highest to meet a corner and power a header into the net.
Espanyol struggles to make an impact
Espanyol, who currently sit 14th in LaLiga, struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the match. Sevilla's defense, marshaled by experienced goalkeeper Bono, stood firm and prevented Espanyol from mounting any significant threat.
Second-half control and a late goal
Sevilla continued to control possession and tempo in the second half, while Espanyol chased the game but to no avail. In the 73rd minute, Sevilla sealed the victory when Youssef En-Nesyri, the Moroccan forward, tapped in from close range after a low cross from the right flank.
Espanyol faces an uphill battle
The 3-0 deficit leaves Espanyol with a daunting task in the second leg, which will be played at the RCDE Stadium on March 1. Sevilla, who have won the Copa del Rey five times, will be confident of completing the job and advancing to the semi-finals.
Key statistics
- Sevilla had 60% possession compared to Espanyol's 40%.
- Sevilla had 17 shots on goal, while Espanyol had just 4.
- Sevilla completed 85% of their passes, while Espanyol completed 78%.
What's next?
Sevilla will return to LaLiga action on Saturday when they host Real Valladolid at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuan Stadium. Espanyol, meanwhile, will travel to Cádiz on Sunday.
