Chidera Ejuke scores as Sevilla beat 10-man Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga

Sevilla took advantage of Athletic Bilbao’s early dismissal to secure a 3-1 LaLiga victory, with Nigeria international Chidera Ejuke scoring shortly after coming on as a substitute.

Athletic Bilbao were reduced to 10 players in the 11th minute when Yuri Berchiche was shown a red card. Sevilla quickly made their numerical advantage count, with Oso opening the scoring four minutes later.

The dismissal changed the shape of the contest and gave Sevilla greater control of the match. Athletic Bilbao were forced to defend with a player fewer, while Sevilla looked to exploit the extra space and strengthen their position.

Ejuke was introduced at half-time, replacing Miguel Angel Sierra, and made an immediate contribution to the contest. The winger doubled Sevilla’s lead in the 50th minute, completing a move created by Isaac Romero.

The goal marked a decisive moment for Sevilla, who had already benefited from Athletic Bilbao’s early setback. Ejuke’s arrival added further attacking threat and helped the visitors turn their advantage into a commanding lead.

Romero then added a third goal seven minutes later to put Sevilla 3-0 ahead. The forward, who had provided the assist for Ejuke’s goal, was rewarded for his contribution by finding the net himself.

Athletic Bilbao did manage to respond in the 70th minute when Aitor Paredes pulled a goal back. However, Sevilla remained resolute during the closing stages and saw out the match to claim all three points.

The result gives Sevilla a winning start to their latest LaLiga fixture, while Athletic Bilbao will be left to reflect on the impact of Berchiche’s early red card. Sevilla’s ability to exploit the one-player advantage ultimately proved crucial, with Ejuke and Romero both making their mark after the dismissal.

Ejuke’s appearance also carries added significance after Sevilla excluded him from their pre-season friendlies as an exit loomed. Despite that uncertainty, he played a central role in Saturday’s victory after being brought on at the interval.

Sevilla’s next LaLiga assignment will be at home against Atletico Madrid. Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, face a trip to play Barcelona in their next league fixture.