A second half goal from Stuttgart midfielder Zdravko Kumanovich denied Sevilla a home win, but couldn't stop the Spanish side from qualifying for the last 16 of the Champions League on Wednesday night. The goal was a fair reward for the German side, that had lost 3-1 at home to Sevilla a fortnight ago, but which was able to react with a spirited second half after being under pressure in the first period.
Elson (L) of VfB Stuttgart is challenged by Diego Perotti of Sevilla during their Champions League soccer match in Seville Nov. 4, 2009
While Sevilla is assured of going into the next phase Stuttgart will battle it out against Rumanian Champions Unirea Urzcieni to accompany. With his side virtually assured a place in the last 16 before kick off, Sevilla coach Manolo Jimenez decided to rest striker Freddy Kanoute and Brazilian utility player Adriano.
Arouna Kone was a surprise starter in Manolo Jimenez's side.
VfB Stuttgart's coach Markus Babbel reacts during their Champions League soccer match against Sevilla in Seville Nov. 4, 2009.
The home time took around 10 minutes to take control of the game against a rival that is struggling in its domestic competition. Luis Fabiano almost got through on goal after five minutes, but it was not until the 12th minute of the game that Sevilla opened the scoring.
Winger Jesus Navas, who has been in fine form all season. received a pass from Fabiano before beating Jens Lehmann with a subtle finish.
The only setback for the home side was a rib injury suffered by Kone, who was replaced by Alvaro Negredo 10 minutes before halftime.
The big forward had only been on the pitch for two minutes before he had a scoring chance, however he was unable to beat Lehmann.
That proved to be a costly miss as Stuttgart looked a vastly improved side in the second half and created three good chances. However, Sevilla was unlucky to find itself down to 10 men after substitute Aldo Duscher pulled a hamstring, before Kumanovich's equalizing goal: a powerful 20 meter shot which came after a fluid team move.
Sevilla looked tired and had to thank goalkeeper Javi Vargas for several fine saves after the break.