Struggling Sevilla win, extend Rayo’s losing streak

Reigning Europa League champions Sevilla have racked up their first win of the year, beating faltering Rayo Vallecano by 2-1 in La Liga.

The victory snapped a six-game winless streak and lifted Sevilla into 15th place, three points clear of the relegation zone.

Rayo, two places higher on the ladder but suffering a fifth defeat in a row, continue to struggle in front of goal.

Only Cadiz and Mallorca – both in the bottom four – have scored fewer goals in La Liga.

Sevilla took the lead after 19 minutes thanks to a stroke of luck and some clinical finishing.

Isaac Romero’s wayward pass cannoned off a Rayo defender and into the path of Youssef En-Nesyri, who made no mistake from the edge of the penalty area.

The home side levelled 10 minutes later when Isi Palazon turned in Alfonso Espino’s cross from the left.

But Romero and En-Nesyri combined again a minute before halftime to put Sevilla back in front, the Morocco forward taking Romero’s pass and finishing smartly after a quick counter-attack.