‘Sevilla only moderately happy’

Unai Emery says Sevilla are only ‘moderately’ happy with their 3-1 victory over Villarreal in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie on Thursday.

Vitolo’s opener inside the first minute at El Madrigal – the fastest goal in the competition’s history – followed by further strikes from Stephane Mbia and Kevin Gameiro handed the Andalucians a commanding away lead ahead of next week’s return fixture back home.

“It’s a tie over 180 minutes and could last even longer, so we must be ready [for the second leg],” the Coach said after the match.

“We’re happy [about the win], but only moderately so because we greatly respect Villarreal.

“They’re a highly-responsive team, who had many chances [to score more goals].

“There’s still [at least] another 90 minutes, which must be played with the same intensity [as the first 90].

“We must be respectful [of Sevilla in the second leg]. The team took another step forward, and next Thursday we have to take another. We want to grow with every game.

"Both teams have players who have never played in this competition before. The most experienced players, who are already accustomed to these situations, help [the less-experienced ones] to make it easier for them.

“[Vicente] Iborra’s qualities are important to us. He always competes when he starts, has a very good character and is versatile. His qualities allow the team to compete better.”

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