Payne provides vital assist in Sevilla away win
Nigerian winger Tony Payne played a pivotal role for Sevilla Femenino in their crucial 2-1 away victory over Villarreal Femenino, keeping their Champions League qualification dream alive in the Spanish Women’s Premier League.
The opening exchanges at the Ciudad Deportiva Villarreal stadium were cagey, with both sides prioritizing defense. Sevilla had the first noteworthy chance through Eva Llamas, but her header from a set-piece by Amanda Sampedro went astray. Despite controlling possession and creating more opportunities, Sevilla lacked the cutting edge to break through Villarreal’s resolute defense and Carmen Carbonell’s exceptional goalkeeping in the first half.
Villarreal struck first after the break with a well-placed header by Kayla McKenna from a Francisca Lara cross. However, Sevilla responded emphatically just two minutes later. Tony Payne, who had a quiet first half, came alive with a moment of magic. Her sublime cross found Inma Gabarro, who expertly slotted the ball home with her right foot.
Payne continued to torment Villarreal’s defenders and nearly doubled Sevilla’s lead in the 56th minute. Her left-footed strike after a clever pass from Sampedro was well-saved by Carmen once again. The game remained tense with both sides searching for a winner.
A controversial penalty decision swung the match in Sevilla’s favor in the 73rd minute. Ainoa Campo’s handball in the box resulted in a spot-kick, which Rosa Otermín coolly converted. Sevilla held on for a vital victory that keeps their European hopes alive.
Sevilla Femenino will now set their sights on welcoming relegation-threatened Eibar in Matchday 25 of the Spanish Women’s Premier League. They will be hoping to build on this momentum and continue their push for a Champions League spot.
