Kevin Gameiro emerged from the bench to fire Sevilla to a narrow 2-1 victory at Estoril in Europa League Group H.
Gameiro grabs winner for La Liga outfit
Kevin Gameiro emerged from the bench to fire Sevilla to a narrow 2-1 victory at Estoril in Europa League Group H.
The Spanish side toiled for an hour in Portugal before Vitolo made the breakthrough, but Estoril hit back immediately through Bruno Miguel.
Gameiro, a summer signing from Paris St Germain, then fired what proved to be the winner but there was still time for Miguel to force a last-gasp save from Javi Varas.
Estoril were content to soak up the pressure but goalkeeper Vagner had a lively first half.
He caught a good effort from Carlos Bacca before watching Miguel head over the crossbar at the other end.
Sevilla breached the Estoril box again, but Vitolo's effort was blocked by Yohan Tavares before Bryan Rabello screeched a powerful drive over the bar.
The tactical half-time tweaks made by Sevilla coach Unai Emery would give his side better incision in the second half.
Chelsea loanee Marko Marin managed to trick his way into the box, only to skew his shot wide, but his skilful play helped produce the first goal in the 59th minute.
The German found his way to the penalty spot once again but this time he fed Vitolo for an easy finish.
Sevilla's joy was shortlived, however, as Miguel waltzed straight into their box to score from the restart.
Estoril failed to push on having rattled the visitors and a succession of fouls allowed the Spaniards to bite back.
Ivan Rakitic stung Vagner's palms before Gameiro - on after 65 minutes for Bacca - seized on Alberto Moreno's pass to beat the Brazilian low to his left.
And with Sevilla running down the clock at the Estadio Antonio Coimbra da Mota, Miguel launched himself head first at a long ball forward, but Varas tipped it over the bar to guarantee the win.
