Real Madrid vs Sevilla: Emotional farewell for Navas in La Liga clash

Alba Romero 7 months ago 7.6k |

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Real Madrid v Sevilla, matchday 18, La Liga 2024/25, 22/12/2024, preview. EFE

La Liga's 18th matchday will see Real Madrid host Sevilla on Sunday in a game charged with both competitive and emotional significance. While second-placed Real Madrid aim to keep pace in the title race, the spotlight will be on Sevilla icon Jesus Navas as he plays the final match of his illustrious career before retirement.

Real Madrid come into this encounter brimming with confidence following their recent Intercontinental Cup triumph, where they defeated Pachuca to add yet another trophy to their collection. The victory has given Carlo Ancelotti's men a morale boost as they return to league action.

However, with the footballing world watching, Los Blancos are expected to show respect for Navas, a true legend of Spanish football. Both sides enter the match with identical recent form: three wins, one draw, and one defeat in their last five outings across all competitions.

Despite their similar results, their league positions tell different stories. Real Madrid sit firmly in second place, keeping the pressure on Atletico Madrid at the top of the table, while Sevilla find themselves in 12th, struggling for consistency in a difficult season.

For Sevilla, the match is about more than the result. Navas, who has been the heart and soul of the club throughout his career, will take the field for the final time in one of football's most iconic venues, the Santiago Bernabeu.

A symbol of loyalty and excellence, the 39-year-old has given his all to the Andalusian club, and his farewell will undoubtedly be an emotional moment for players, fans, and rivals alike. Kick-off is set for 16.50 CET, and the Bernabeu crowd will witness not only a key La Liga encounter but also the farewell of a footballing great.

Will Sevilla rally to give Navas a memorable send-off or will Real Madrid's title ambitions take centre stage?