UEFA Europa League 2018-19: 5 talking points from MatchDay 1
The UEFA Europa League 2018-19 group stage matches started from 20th September 2018. This year the Europa League will feature the English giants Arsenal and Chelsea, the likes of Sevilla and Villarreal from Spain and AC Milan along with Lazio from Italy.
Here are the 5 main talking points from Matchday 1 of the UEFA Europa League 2018-19:
1. Sevilla wins big against Standard Liege, while Betis are held off to a draw at Olympiacos:
Sevilla started their Europa League campaign this season at home against Belgian side Standard Liege. Sevilla has had a rocky start so far in La Liga this season with losses to Betis and Getafe and are on 4 points from 4 games.
Sevilla started the match with a 3-4-3 formation with Ben Yedder up front supported by Franco Vasquez and Quincy Promes. Ever Banega scored from a free kick in the 8th minute to give the home side a 1-0 lead. Liege equalized in the 39th minute scored by Djenepo, but Sevilla regained the lead through a Franco Vasquez goal assisted by Jesus Navas.
Sevilla added three more in the second half with Ben Yedder scoring twice and Banega scoring another from the penalty spot. Pablo Machin's men would like to continue this form in La Liga as well as they take on Levante next.
Sevilla's Basque neighbors Real Betis also started their campaign in the Europa League with a trip to Olympiacos in Greece. Club captain Joaquin started the match for Betis alongside LoCelso in midfield. Betis and Olympiacos failed to convert any of their chances throughout the match resulting in a goalless draw.