Nervy Sevilla qualify for group stages

The Spanish side were clear favourites to progress to the Champions League group stage after the 2-1 first leg win in Turkey.

Sevilla started brightly and had the opening chance after just three minutes. Gabriel Mercado played in Ben Yedder and the striker unleashed a shot across goal that flew just wide of the post.

The hosts hit the woodwork on 14 minutes when Mercado drove at the Istanbul Buyuksehir defence and powered a long range strike towards Volkan Babacan’s goal. Unfortunately for Argentinian, the ball came flying back off the post and out to safety.

Istanbul Buyuksehir took a shock lead three minutes later. A delightful through ball was played into the path of Júnior Caiçara, who arrived at the right byline before squaring for Eljero Elia to tap in.

Ever Banega had an opportunity to equalise after a free-kick was given on the edge of the visitors box for handball. The midfielder lined up his strike but fired just over the top left corner.

Sevilla ended the half strong and had another chance to level the scoring just before half-time. Banega swung in a corner aimed for Clément Lenglet, the Frenchman rose highest to get his head to the ball but couldn’t direct the effort on target.

After the break, Sevilla picked up where they left off and found an equaliser after 52 minutes. Jesús Navas whipped a ball towards the far post for Sergio Escudero to run onto and head into the top left corner.

The home team went ahead with 15 minutes to play when Nolito found some space on the edge of the box. The former Manchester City man initially hesitated but played in Ben Yedder and he powered a strike across Babacan into the left corner.

A late goal from the visitors ensured a nervy finish for Eduardo Berizzo’s men. Sevilla couldn’t deal with a cross from the left and Edin Visca fired home from six yards out.

The Spanish side’s fans hearts were in their mouths when Istanbul picked up a free-kick on the edge of the box. Emre stepped up but his strike hit the post and the Sevilla faithfuls could breathe a massive sigh of relief.

They managed to hold out for a 2-2 draw and secure a spot in the Champions League group stages despite a spirited performance from the Turkish side.