Sevilla Claim Derby Spoils With 2-0 Win Over Real Betis

Sevilla claim bragging rights in Seville derby
Sevilla claim bragging rights in Seville derby / CRISTINA QUICLER/Getty Images
facebooktwitterreddit

It's not quite there yet, but the normality we're accustomed to of almost daily football got one step closer with the return of La Liga on Thursday.

A humdinger of a game was first up in store too, as Sevilla took on local rivals Real Betis in Derbi Sevillano - with Julen Lopetegui's men claiming the spoils with a 2-0 victory.

While there were no (real) fans in attendance, the authorities were powerless to prevent supporters gathering outside for such a huge clash, one that was decided with two second half goals.

A minute's silence was held before kick off in memory of those who had lost their lives to COVID-19, one that was impeccably held by both sets of players.

One of La Liga's standout performers this season, Lucas Ocampos, was the key man throughout the clash, going close to breaking the deadlock in the first half when he rattled the crossbar from a narrow angle.

The Argentine has been in fine form for Sevilla this season, racking up 14 goal contributions in just 23 starts, and his goal after the break ensured he has found the back of the net for the fifth match running.

It came from the penalty spot ten minutes after the restart, coolly slotting beyond Joel Robles to put the hosts in front.

Ocampos had a say in the second goal of the evening too, conjuring up an ingenious backheel from an in-swinging corner that fell perfectly for Fernando, who fired home and doubled the advantage just six minutes later.

No more goals were forthcoming, as Sevilla remain in third spot in La Liga, just six points behind Real Madrid and eight behind leaders Barcelona, both who have a game in hand and play later this weekend.


For more from Ross Kennerley, follow him on Twitter!