Sevilla suffered their first defeat of pre-season, losing 1-0 to Krakow in a match played under torrential rain. The team, led by Luis García Plaza, showed a lack of precision and created few clear chances.
On Wednesday, Sevilla FC recorded their first summer defeat, falling 1-0 against Krakow at the municipal stadium in the Polish city. The Andalusian side, which has yet to complete its squad, showed deficiencies in attack and hardly troubled the local goalkeeper, in a match affected by a downpour that turned the pitch into a swimming pool.
An early goal and two missed chances
The match started with Sevilla dominating, who three minutes in had their first opportunity: a cross from Juan Iglesias and a header from Isaac Romero that went over the bar. Shortly after, the youth player Miguel Sierra attempted a shot-cross that was saved by Madejski. However, Krakow grew into the game, and in the 30th minute, a short indirect free kick allowed Ajdin Hasic to connect with a left-footed shot that hit the right post of Vlachodimos. The 1-0 left the Sevilla bench stunned.
Sevilla reacted before half-time and hit the woodwork twice. In the 36th minute, Kike Salas headed against the crossbar from a free kick taken by Miguel Sierra. Four minutes later, Sierra himself sent a low shot that kissed the base of the post. In between, Arouna Sangante saved a lob from Zahiroleslam with a bicycle kick off the line. The score remained unchanged, but the team left with mixed feelings.
Torrential rain and a dull finish
The second half began with torrential rain that distorted the game. Sevilla found little continuity on a sodden pitch where the ball wouldn't run. Luis García Plaza made substitutions: Carmona, Nico Guillén, Ejuke, Ibra Sow, and Alberto Flores came on, among others. But the changes did not improve the play. Krakow could have extended their lead, but Alberto Flores saved the second against Kamil Glik, and Ibra Sow later cleared off the line.
In the 84th minute, youth player Joaquín Martínez 'Oso' was sent off for kicking a ball at the assistant, an action that marred the final moments. In the 89th minute, Jesús Cruz headed dangerously, but Chrapusta held onto the Polish victory. Sevilla left Krakow with more doubts than certainties, feeling that they lack a striker to finish the chances they create.
Scoring deficit, a major concern
Sevilla has now played several pre-season matches where scoring has eluded them. Isaac Romero still cannot find the net, and youth players like Miguel Sierra or Manuel Ángel have yet to take on offensive responsibility. Coach Luis García Plaza acknowledged after the match that "we need more speed and precision in the final third." The Sevilla fans, who are closely watching the club's movements in the market, are hoping for a reliable reinforcement for the attack.
The team returns to Sevilla this Thursday and will have a few days of rest before facing their next preparation commitments. The next test will be on Saturday, August 3 against Sporting Lisbon at the Algarve stadium, a match that will serve to continue refining the pieces. Meanwhile, the technical department is working against the clock to finalize the signings the team needs.
The defeat in Krakow is not a disaster, but it is a wake-up call. Sevilla must improve their collective play and finishing if they want to be in top condition at the start of LaLiga. Time is running out, and the calendar does not forgive.
You may also like
