Super Eagles stars Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidera Ejuke made their La Liga debuts for Sevilla, but their efforts couldn't prevent a 2-1 defeat to Villarreal on Friday night at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium.
Villarreal struck early, with Netherlands forward Arnaut Danjuma finding the net just 90 seconds into the match. Sevilla responded well, and Dodi Lukebakio equalized just before halftime, ensuring the sides went into the break level.
In the second half, Sevilla manager García Pimienta introduced Chidera Ejuke in the 71st minute, followed by Kelechi Iheanacho in the 77th minute. Both players showed flashes of their potential, adding energy and creativity to the attack.
However, in the dying moments of the game, Villarreal's Ayoze Pérez struck a 96th-minute winner, leaving Sevilla empty-handed despite a spirited performance.
Chidera Ejuke dazzles, Kelechi Iheanacho subdued
The loss leaves Sevilla winless after two games this season, with a draw and a defeat placing them 16th on the La Liga table.
The Andalusian side, who endured a tough 2023-24 campaign finishing 14th, will be hoping the addition of Ejuke and Iheanacho can provide the spark needed to improve their fortunes.
In 19 minutes of play, Ejuke completed six of seven attempted dribbles and won seven of nine duels. His distribution, however, left something to be desired, and he only completed 55 percent of his 11 passes.
For his part, Iheanacho was quieter on most fronts, but managed to draw a good save out of eventual man of the match Diego Conde despite only getting four touches of the ball.
Two games down, Sevilla will be eager to secure their first win of the season as they aim to climb up the table and avoid another disappointing campaign.
