Arriaga nets assist in Levante’s massive upset victory over Sevilla
In a result that few predicted, bottom-side Levante UD produced their performance of the season on Sunday, traveling to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán and dismantling Sevilla FC with a clinical 3–0 victory. This massive away win serves as a major boost for Levante’s survival hopes and showcases the impact of their new tactical identity.
Match recap
The first half was a tense, tactical battle with Sevilla controlling the ball but failing to break down a resolute Levante defensive block. The momentum shifted just before the interval when Iker Losada capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home the opener in the 45th minute, assisted by Iván Romero.
Sevilla pushed high in the second half to find an equalizer, but their frustration mounted as the visitors remained disciplined. Levante doubled their lead in the 77th minute through Carlos Espí, who finished a swift counter-attack sparked by a brilliant long ball from the midfield. As Sevilla threw everything forward in stoppage time, Carlos Álvarez added a third in the 90th minute, sealing a historic three points for the Valencia-based side.
Arriaga’s performance
Kervin Arriaga was a towering presence in the center of the pitch, acting as the primary disruptor to Sevilla’s creative play while also serving as a secondary playmaker.
- Key assist: Arriaga was credited with the assist for Carlos Espí’s goal in the 77th minute. He intercepted a Sevilla pass deep in his own half and immediately unleashed a perfectly weighted ball over the top to find Espí in stride, a moment that effectively put the game out of reach.
- Midfield anchor: He played a vital role in the defensive “double pivot,” effectively neutralizing Sevilla’s creative threats and ensuring they were restricted to low-quality shots from distance.
- Aerial command: Facing a Sevilla side that frequently looked to cross from the wings, Arriaga was a primary target for defensive clearances, winning nearly every header in his vicinity.
- Discipline and grit: Despite the high stakes of the relegation battle, Arriaga maintained his composure, providing the physical edge Levante needed without entering the referee’s book.
Stats
- Minutes played: 90
- Assists: 1
- Interceptions: 4
- Tackles won: 3
- Aerial duels won: 5
- Pass accuracy: 82%
This victory marks a potential turning point for Arriaga and Levante. With a performance this dominant—including his first assist of the campaign—the confidence in the Levante camp will be at an all-time high. Arriaga continues to prove he belongs at the highest level of Spanish football.
