Rayo Vallecano’s chances of sealing a European spot have been dented by a 1-1 La Liga draw at home to Sevilla.
Andoni Iraola’s side have made a surprise run for the Europa League places since the start of 2023 but they have struggled for points in recent weeks.
That pattern looked set to continue in Vallecas as Suso’s deflected strike edged the visitors in front before the break.
Sevilla get the opener!
Suso's effort takes a huge deflection and ends up in the back of the net 💫#LaLigaSantander | @LaLigaTV pic.twitter.com/iuQ6u5He7p
— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) February 19, 2023
However, Iraola hosts reacted after the restart as Florian Lejeune headed them level, before VAR denied Youssef En-Nesyri and Raul de Tomas winning goals late on.
🗣️ "A great cross in, a fine header!"
Florian Lejeune connects with Isi Palazón's corner for the equaliser ⚡#LaLigaSantander | @LaLigaTV pic.twitter.com/KzxVKrBv0q
— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) February 19, 2023
Elsewhere in Sunday’s action, rock bottom Elche slipped into deeper relegation danger, as they lost 1-0 at home to Espanyol.
Both sides wasted chances in a frantic opening, before Jose Angel Carmona was sent off late on, and Sergi Darder smashed home a superb winner for the visitors, to deny Elche a rare point at home.
Thunderbolt! 💥
Sergi Darder scores a brilliant injury time goal for Espanyol against Elche 👏#LaLigaSantander | @LaLigaTV pic.twitter.com/dKBH6ROoyt
— Viaplay Sports UK (@ViaplaySportsUK) February 19, 2023
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