Sevilla FC is reviewing its controversial 1-1 draw against RCD Espanyol, a match defined by a debatable red card and a stoppage-time equalizer. According to ABC Deportes, referee Sesma Espinosa sent off defender Mamadou Sangante in the 48th minute, a decision not overturned by VAR which shaped the remainder of the game.
García Plaza's team now looks ahead to its next fixture, a home match against Valencia on September 11th, while sitting seventh in the standings with 7 points. Their record after four matchdays reads two wins, one draw, and one loss, with 7 goals scored and 6 conceded.
What happened with Sangante's red card?
ABC Deportes detailed that the key incident occurred in the second half. Sangante collided with Espanyol forward Roberto after touching the ball first, but the referee showed a straight red card. The video assistant referee, Trujillo Suárez, chose not to intervene to recommend an on-field review, leaving the decision standing.
This action prompted strong protests from the Sevilla coaching staff, led by manager García Plaza. The Andalusian club played the remaining 40-plus minutes with ten men, a numerical disadvantage that severely hampered their options. This refereeing controversy adds to others experienced by the team at the start of the season.
How did the team react with ten men?
Despite the adversity, Sevilla managed to take the lead. According to the account from La Tercera, Belgian forward Lucas Stassin showed the "goal-scoring instinct that justified the excitement around his signing" by netting the 0-1 in the 85th minute. His finish from a cross seemed to secure all three points for the visitors.
However, in the eighth minute of added time, Espanyol found the equalizer through Marcos Fernández. A defensive error in a seemingly straightforward play allowed for the leveling goal. VAR checked the goal but found no reason to disallow it, sealing the final 1-1 scoreline. This goal denied what would have been a heroic victory under very difficult circumstances.
What is the early season assessment?
The draw at the RCDE Stadium leaves Sevilla with mixed feelings. The team showed character to overcome the sending-off and was close to securing a significant win. Yet, the late goal prevented them from taking all three points, which would have placed them closer to the top spots.
Currently seventh, Sevilla sits five points behind leaders Barcelona. The offensive output, with 7 goals in 4 games, is acceptable, but defensive consistency will be an area of focus, especially with the confirmed absence of Rubén Vargas on the injuries list. The next challenge is the home game against Valencia, who arrive bottom of the table-an opportunity to return to winning ways and climb the standings. The full squad available for that match can be seen on the official team page.
