Valencia CF’s clash with Sevilla FC at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw.
Luis Rioja opened the scoring, but a late equalizer from the hosts ensured both teams shared the spoils.
The game began with Valencia CF pushing hard to take control. Their first notable foray into Sevilla’s area came in the 9th minute, courtesy of André Almeida stealing the ball and setting up Rioja with a pass into space, though the opportunity didn’t culminate in a decisive connection.
Rioja soon had another chance but was again unable to capitalize.
José Luis Gayà, making his return from injury, became the target of Sevilla defender Carmona, who subjected him to two tough fouls.
The referee waved play on despite the challenges drawing blood from Gayà’s left boot.
Midway through the opening half, Sevilla tested Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who was back in action following injury.
Isaac unleashed a shot from outside the box, forcing the Georgian into a brilliant save. Shortly after, Javi Guerra’s effort narrowly missed the mark, while a dangerous cross from Rioja skimmed across Nyland’s goal.
As the first half drew to a close, Saúl Ñíguez had a prime opportunity to put Sevilla ahead, but his shot failed to find the target.
Valencia returned from the break with renewed determination to control possession.
However, ten minutes into the second half, Mamardashvili was again called into action, producing another excellent save from Lukebakio’s shot.
Moments later, Saúl came close to giving Sevilla the lead, heading narrowly over from a corner.
In the 61st minute, Valencia CF broke the deadlock. Mamardashvili launched a long ball forward, Hugo Duro nodded it on, and Rioja expertly finished past Nyland.
Just two minutes later, Rioja nearly doubled the advantage with another close attempt.
Sevilla thought they had equalized through Saúl, but the goal was ruled out.
Umar Sadiq then made his league debut for Valencia, having played midweek in the Copa del Rey.
The hosts pushed for a late goal, with Rubén Vargas striking the post.
Despite Valencia’s defensive resilience, Sevilla found an equalizer in the 92nd minute. Pedrosa’s cross-shot slipped through Mamardashvili’s gloves, denying Valencia victory.
Valencia CF now turns their attention to Tuesday’s Copa del Rey clash against Ourense CF at O Couto.
