Improved version of Sevilla to defeat Stade de Reims one day after losing to Werder Bremen. The goals from Gameiro and Juan Muñoz gave a hard-fought victory in which Emery rotated his players, this time placing Konoplyanka as a starter. The Ukrainian player is struggling to adapt quickly to his teammates' playing style and got lost in some phases of the game that lacked intensity, although the Sevilla team was superior in ideas and effectiveness compared to an innocent French team. Beyond the feelings, Sevilla leaves French territory concerned about the physical condition of Kevin Gameiro, who had to be substituted in the first half due to discomfort immediately after opening the scoring.
Krychowiak, honored by his former team before the match, partnered in midfield with Krohn Dehli. The Danish player stood out with some masterful passes and good ball distribution, although his position is still a mystery due to the risks he takes from behind. Rami showed strength in many duels and Mariano left a good impression going up the right flank with determination and resources. The same can be said about Tremoulinas. After a good recovery near the corner flag, the French player delivered a good cross that Gameiro anticipated at the near post to score the first goal of the game. French connection in French territory.
Krohn Dehli controlled the game pace and Konoplyanka asked for verticality. He still doesn't take on as often as he would like, which influences his movements in a team with many players who prefer to pass. The academy graduate Cotán felt more comfortable, showing his ability to connect lines and linking up well with Carlos Fernández. After Gameiro's injury and substitution, Juan Muñoz took his place up front and wasted no time in receiving a gift from Konoplyanka to score the second goal. Stade de Reims, led by an intense Moukandjo, encountered Sevilla's effectiveness as a barrier to their tactical organization.
The second half was an experimental scenario. Rami played the full game and clashed with all his opponents, showing that he has no qualms when it comes to physical duels. Reyes came on and Konoplyanka was substituted after a period of less physical work. Carriço, who entered the midfield, made a mistake in an aerial ball and allowed Kyei to reduce the deficit with a well-placed shot against Beto's stretch. The Portuguese goalkeeper would later save the draw with two impressive saves when the French team had already imposed themselves physically on a too sluggish Sevilla side. Immobile came into play but could only make a few runs in attacks without direction, while Stade de Reims, spurred on by their fans, closed the game with attacks that did not bear fruit.
The improvement shown by Sevilla provides hope with little time left until the UEFA Super Cup. However, their attention is also focused on Gameiro, who is causing concern in the attack.