Sevilla stuns Rayo with two penalties while down to ten men

Sevilla claimed all three points on matchday one against Rayo Vallecano in a thrilling 2-1 victory at the Sánchez-Pizjuán, a result that felt like pure gold given the penalty-laden and chaotic nature of the contest.

The hosts got off to the worst possible start when a miscommunication between Arouna Sangante and Odysseas Vlachodimos handed Álvaro García an easy finish in the fourth minute. Despite dominating possession at times, Sevilla struggled to break down Vallecano's defense through open play and instead looked to manufacture opportunities in the box.

Spot-kick drama decides the day

A penalty was awarded to Isaac Romero but overturned by VAR (38'). After the interval, contact on Miguel Sierra was adjudged a genuine handball, and Jon Guridi converted from the spot to equalize (52'). The narrative appeared set until Kike Salas received a red card for a reckless challenge (88'), leaving Sevilla with ten men.

Extra-time heroics

Yet when relegation-haunted Sevilla seemed destined for a damaging loss, another infringement inside the area allowed Peque Fernández to slot home the winner (90+7'). According to L'Équipe, the Andalusians begin their survival mission with an unforgettable opening weekend, while Vallecano depart empty-handed despite controlling large spells of play.