Juventus and Sevilla played out a 1-1 draw in the Europa League semi-final at the Juventus Stadium on Thursday, May 11. The Spanish side went ahead in the first half thanks to a goal from Youssef En-Nesyri, with the hosts finding the equalizer in the dying moments of the game through Federico Gatti, assisted by Paul Pogba.
Despite the result, Juventus dominated the game, with 59% of ball possession and more completed passes than their opponents. However, they struggled to create clear-cut chances, managing just two shots on target compared to Sevilla's five.
The two teams had contrasting form coming into the game, with Sevilla winning their previous six matches in all competitions, while Juventus had won just two of their last six. However, the Italian side started the game brightly, pressing high up the pitch and creating some early half-chances.
Sevilla weathered the storm and took the lead in the 26th minute, with En-Nesyri heading home from close range after a cross from Lucas Ocampos. The Moroccan striker has been in fine form for the Spanish side this season, and his goal took his tally in the Europa League to nine, making him the competition's top scorer.
Juventus pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half, with Adrien Rabiot and Manuel Locatelli going close with long-range efforts. The hosts also introduced attacking substitutes Federico Chiesa and Federico Gatti, and their increased urgency paid off in the 97th minute, with Gatti scoring his first goal for the club to send the game to extra time.
Sevilla had chances to win the game in extra time, with Erik Lamela and Ivan Rakitic both going close, but they were unable to find the back of the net. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with both teams now facing a second leg in Seville on May 18.
The result leaves the tie finely balanced, with Juventus having an away goal advantage, but Sevilla having a strong record at home this season. The Spanish side will be hoping to continue their impressive run of form and reach their sixth Europa League final, while Juventus will be looking to overturn their poor recent form and secure their place in the final for the first time since 1995.
