Bono saves 2 penalties to win Europa league with Sevilla
Sevilla has clinched an unprecedented seventh Europa League title, triumphing over Roma in a thrilling penalty shootout at the lively Puskas Arena in Budapest. A standout performance by goalkeeper Bono played a crucial role in Sevilla’s victory.
Sevilla has now won all seven finals they have played in the Europa League, with captain Jesus Navas contributing to their first triumph against Middlesbrough in 2006. Despite finishing outside the top four in La Liga, this recent victory secures their qualification for next season’s Champions League.
Sevilla, the Andalusian club, successfully avoided relegation and eliminated both Manchester United and Juventus en route to the final.
Bono’s exceptional goalkeeping skills played a significant role in saving Roma’s attempts and securing the decisive victory for Sevilla. This follows his impressive form in the world cup 2022 where Morocco reached a historic semi final.
Gonzalo Montiel who scored the winning penalty for Argentina in the World Cup final against France, replicated his success for the Spanish side. After a 1-1 draw, Montiel converted a retaken spot kick, following misses by Roger Ibanez and Gianluca Mancini from Roma.
Roma’s Paulo Dybala, Montiel’s international teammate, deservedly opened the scoring in the first half. Dybala expertly directed a low shot into the bottom right corner after a precise pass from Italy defender Mancini.
However, Roma lost control of the match as Sevilla intensified their efforts for an equalizer. Sevilla drew level ten minutes into the second half when Navas’ cross from the right deflected off the unfortunate Mancini, leading to an own goal.
Sevilla appeared to have been given a golden opportunity to take the lead when Lucas Ocampos was brought down by Ibanez, resulting in a penalty. However, English referee Anthony Taylor reversed his decision after a video assistant referee review.
The match extended to an intense extra time, with Chris Smalling’s header hitting the crossbar in the 11th minute of stoppage time. The dramatic climax unfolded in the penalty shootout.
