Sevilla’s coach, García Pimienta, praised Nigerian winger Chidera Ejuke for seizing his opportunity following his decisive performance in their 1-0 win over Real Sociedad on Sunday.
After a goalless first half, Ejuke scored the only goal shortly after the break, securing Sevilla’s ninth victory of the season with his second La Liga goal. It was his first start since recovering from an injury in January, and he took full advantage with a stunning curling shot.
Pimienta highlighted key elements of Ejuke’s performance, noting his remarkable recovery and ability to step up when it mattered most. “When he got injured, he was in excellent form, and after being out for three months, it’s never easy to regain full fitness,” Pimienta said on Sevilla’s official website. “The opportunity came for Ejuke, and he took it well. He also contributed defensively, which is very important for the team. We’re all really happy for him.”
Ejuke’s absence due to injury coincided with Sevilla’s search for additional attacking options in January, leading to the signing of Swiss winger Ruben Vargas. However, with Vargas sidelined due to a hip issue, Ejuke was given the chance to shine against Sociedad.
“Vargas has been in great form, and Ejuke had to wait for his moment,” Pimienta added. “Unfortunately, Rubén’s hip problem kept him out of this match, and that allowed Ejuke to step in.”
With the victory, Sevilla are now unbeaten in their last five La Liga away games, a run they haven’t matched since May 2023. The team has climbed to 10th place in the standings with 36 points from 27 matches.
Next up for Sevilla is a home match against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, just before Ejuke hopes to make the final squad for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
