Friday, 25th April, 2014



Sevilla midfielder Ivan Rakitic is delighted after his side beat domestic rivals Valencia 2-0 in the first-leg of the semi-final of the Europa League last night.

A 33rd minute goal from Stephane Mbia followed by Carlos Bacca’s strike just three minutes after ensured that Unai Emery’s side would go to the Mestalla with a two-goal advantage for their return leg on Thursday.




The Spanish side extended their unbeaten home run against the Bats to 14, and Rakitic is happy with the way his team played out the game as they look close to a spot in the final.

“We played a good game, we played with a good level of intensity and we’re very pleased with the style and the tempo of our play”, the Croatian international was quoted as saying UEFA’s site.

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“At the end of the day, the best team won. We enjoyed the game and I think that the fans will be pleased too, because they've seen a very high-quality game.

“What’s more, keeping a clean sheet is always important”, the 26-year-old added.

Sevilla lost their last away game to Valencia 3-1 in La Liga in September, and will be hoping to get back against Juan Antonio Pizzi’s team this time around.

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