Sevilla vs Valladolid preview - Bacca eyes Sevilla response

Posted Saturday, March 15, 2014 by PA

Sevilla striker Carlos Bacca is keen to make amends for the Europa League defeat to bitter rivals Real Betis when Real Valladolid come to town this weekend.

On Thursday evening the Verdiblancos suffered a 2-0 home defeat to their neighbours in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie.

Goals from Leo Baptistao and Salva Sevilla proved the difference at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan and leaves Sevilla with a mountain to climb in next week's return leg.

For now, though, the main focus for Unai Emery's side is the visit of Valladolid on Sunday in the Primera Division.

Valladolid come into the match fresh from last weekend's 1-0 win over title-chasing Barcelona, but Sevilla striker Bacca has warned them to expect a response from his side.

"You have to move on," he said after the Betis defeat. "Unfortunately we lost a battle, but not the war.

"We have 90 minutes still to play, but first comes a game that is important.

"Valladolid are very motivated because they have beaten some of the best teams in the world, but we will play at home and to get three points will be important.

"We must focus on our game, give our best and keep working in the best way."

Sevilla lie seventh heading into the match with relegation-threatened Valladolid and that, Bacca insists, is the main focus, not the Europa League return fixture on Thursday.

"We cannot think about Betis," the Colombian striker said.

"We have to remain calm because there are still 90 minutes, but we focus on Valladolid. The fans are with us and we will try to do my best.

"On Monday we will prepare for Thursday's game, which will not be easy. "

Valladolid will be with midfielder Alvaro Rubio for the trip to Sevilla, as well as the rest of March due to a leg injury, while forward Humberto Osorio is a doubt for the match due to a muscle strain.