RELATED
 |
| Sevilla claimed a record-extending seventh Europa League title as they beat Roma on penalties at a raucous Puskas Arena in Budapest. |
BUDAPEST - In a thrilling final at the Puskas Arena, Sevilla emerged victorious in the UEFA Europa League, defeating Roma in a penalty shootout to claim their record-extending seventh title. Gonzalo Montiel, who had previously scored the winning penalty for Argentina in the World Cup final against France, once again showcased his spot-kick prowess by converting the decisive penalty for the Spanish side. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time.
Roma took the lead in the first half, courtesy of a fine goal from Paulo Dybala. The Argentine forward latched onto a precise pass from Gianluca Mancini and expertly guided the ball into the bottom right corner of the net. However, Sevilla displayed resilience and leveled the score ten minutes into the second half. Jesus Navas delivered a cross from the right flank, which deflected off Mancini and ended up in Roma's own net.
Both teams had their chances to secure victory within normal time. Tammy Abraham and Roger Ibanez squandered opportunities from close range for Roma, while Andrea Belotti missed the target after a clever free-kick from Lorenzo Pellegrini. In a dramatic turn of events, English referee Anthony Taylor initially awarded Sevilla a penalty when Lucas Ocampos was fouled by Ibanez. However, after consulting the video assistant referee, Taylor reversed his decision and the penalty was rescinded.
The tense match proceeded into extra time, with Sevilla coming agonizingly close to scoring when Chris Smalling's header struck the crossbar in the 101st minute. As the clock ticked down, neither team could break the deadlock, forcing the final outcome to be decided through a penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Montiel secured the victory for Sevilla with his converted penalty, while Roger Ibanez and Gianluca Mancini failed to find the back of the net for Roma. The match witnessed a total of 14 yellow cards, including bookings for players and coaches, as tensions ran high throughout the contest.
Sevilla's triumph in the Europa League final adds another chapter to their storied history in the competition. The Spanish club has established itself as a dominant force in European competition, consistently producing impressive performances and securing silverware. The victory marks a memorable end to their campaign and serves as a testament to their resilience and determination.
Fans and pundits alike have lauded Chris Smalling for his exceptional performance in the final. The defender stood out among his peers, displaying solidity in defense and coming close to scoring the winning goal in extra time with his header.
Sevilla's success in the Europa League final exemplifies their prowess as a team and cements their reputation as one of the continent's premier football clubs. As celebrations ensue, the players and fans will relish this historic moment and eagerly anticipate future triumphs on both domestic and European fronts.
PICTORIAL
 |
| José Mourinho becoming more and more furious at the officials and not letting anything goes. |
 |
| Jose Mourinho took off his Europa League runners-up medal and gave it to a young fan |
 |
| UEFA Europa League wall of champions since 1972 |
 |
| Jose Mourinho's 100% record in European finals comes to an end |
