Cup kings Sevilla could spring Champions League upset

Banega-Sevilla

A team with nothing, or little to lose, is always a dangerous proposition, particularly if they are a side used to upsetting the odds.

Sevilla have essentially kissed goodbye to their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League via La Liga, as they are currently 14 points off Valencia in fourth place.

Despite not being in a position to do too much damage domestically, they are still well placed to have a key role in the season run in .

Vincenzo Montella’s side pulled off the shock of the round when they defeated Manchester United at Old Trafford, to seal a place in the Champions League quarter finals.

Sevilla served their European apprenticeship with brilliant success in the Europa League, winning it six times between 2006 and 2015, becoming the most successful team in the history of the competition in the process.

However their record in the Champions League has been mixed, progressing to the Champions League knockout stages just twice, and both times they were eliminated at the last 16 stage.

The result against Jose Mourinho’s side has increased confidence that this season can be different for the club.

In their way stands Jupp Heynckes’ Bayern Munich, currently leading the way in the Bundesliga.

Despite having a greater pedigree than their Spanish opponents, there is an underlying feeling that the German side could be a little off the pace, as they stroll to another domestic title.

Sevilla, under Montella, have the feel of a guerilla side that can upset the form guide and pull off key results.

Their La Liga form has been mixed in recent weeks, winning three and losing three of their last six games.

However with the top four pressure off, they could look to push on in Europe.

Wissam ben Yedder was the hero against Manchester United, scoring twice, and he has been key in Europe this season -scoring 11 goals.

Operating from a deeper attacking role, Joaquin Correa has also been excellent, scoring six times in the Champions League.

Across the team they have plenty of experience, with Ever Banega, Gabriel Mercado and Steven Nzonzi all enjoying strong seasons.

Sevilla know they will need to be at their best to get past a consistent Bayern Munich team, but their results so far this season will offer real hope that they are capable of  another upset against a European heavyweight.

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