With the Copa still the best chance either have of winning silverware this season, Barcelona took on Sevilla in the first leg of the semi-final of the Copa del Ray\u00a0at the Sanchez Pizjuan with both sides still in the fight for European glory but off the pace in La Liga.<\/p>\n
The first advantage is with Julen Lopetegui\u2019s men as a competent, controlled and ruthless Sevilla secured an impressive 2-0 victory, scoring either side of half-time to ensure that Barcelona returned to Catalonia empty-handed.<\/p>\n
I think we deserved more,\u201d Ronald Koeman said post-game in comments carried by Marca.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe played well and created scoring chances. I think the result doesn\u2019t reflect what happened on the pitch, it\u2019s too much of a reward to them for what happened.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re in a good moment, and we\u2019ll continue to fight. We played well, but we played against a great team, and a very physical one. We had opportunities. There\u2019s VAR, but I think we should have had a penalty.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have to analyse the game. There are many games before the second leg, and there\u2019s been great wear-and-tear. We have to try to play to win in the second leg, and there\u2019s hope, although the tie is difficult. At home this team are capable of anything.\u201d<\/p>\n
The game kicked off to a competitive start with Sevilla quickly surging into the lead inside the opening half-hour through Jules Kounde\u00a0as the French centre back dribbled past Samuel Umtiti before wrapping up with a cool finishing.<\/p>\n
Finally, heading into the ending five minutes, Sevilla doubled their lead with ex-Barcelona man Ivan Rakitic\u00a0scoring to give his club a valuable two-goal cushion that could come in handy come the second leg.<\/p>\n
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