Sevilla’s Berizzo back after cancer operation
MADRID: Eduardo Berizzo’s return to the Sevilla dugout delivered some defensive steel but no cutting edge up front as Levante ground out a goalless draw at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.
Berizzo, back on the touchline on Friday night following prostate cancer surgery, was a frustrated observer after Sevilla were humbled 5-0 at Real Madrid last time out in La Liga.
The Sevilla boss announced his diagnosis following his side’s Champions League heroics against Liverpool — where they came from three goals down to draw 3-3 — on Nov 21. He underwent the surgery seven days later.
The draw here, coincidentally, saw Sevilla miss out on a chance to draw level with Real, who jetted off to Abu Dhabi for the Fifa Club World Cup earlier this week, in the final Champions League spot but wastefulness saw them remain fifth.
Levante came close through Villarreal loanee Enes Unal before, at the other end, Ganso went close with a header.
It was Sevilla who survived the biggest scare before half-time as David ‘Jason’ Remeseiro powerful free-kick hit a post.
The hosts were less nervous in the second half and as the hour mark approached Wissam Ben Yedder cannoned an effort off Levante goalkeeper Oier after being set up by Pablo Sarabia.
“I feel fine,” Berizzo said following his return to action.
“I wanted to be with the team after the loss (at Madrid). I wanted to be here to tell my players that their coach is with them.”
“If we couldn’t win today, then we will do our best to beat Real Sociedad next match.”
Jesus Navas set a club record for the most appearances for Sevilla at 416 games when he made an appearance as a substitute on 76 minutes. Navas, 32, returned to his boyhood club this season after four years at Manchester City. He broke the record previously held by Pablo Blanco.
“I am proud to set the record with my team, but we wanted a different result,” Navas said.
“It’s important to have the coach back with us.”
While Sevilla are caught in a battle for a Champions League spot, Berizzo returns to the side in time to prepare them for their last 16 clash with Manchester United in the New Year.