Sevilla rocking all the way

Sevilla rocking all the way

Sevilla defender Sebastian Squillaci hailed a "great" performance from his side as the Andalusian club moved to within touching distance of a spot in the last 16 of the Champions League with a 3-1 win over Stuttgart.

Sevilla made it three wins from three in Europe with the triumph in Germany and now boast a five-point lead over second-placed Unirea Urziceni in Group G with two of their final three games coming at home.

Squillaci, who scored two of his side's goals against Stuttgart, said after the victory: "We've seen a great Sevilla. When the team play their football, like they did here, then matches go like that.

"It was a difficult game, but we had a lot of chances and have done well."

Stuttgart were quick out of the blocks and created some decent openings early on, but they failed to make the most of their dominance and Sevilla went ahead in the 23rd minute when Squillaci powered home a header from Adriano's cross.

The Spanish side, who have won eight of their 10 competitive matches this season, then extended their lead through Jesus Navas in the 55th minute before Squillaci made it 3-0 in the 72nd minute, making Elson's strike two minutes later nothing more than a consolation for Stuttgart.

"We suffered for around 20 minutes when the team didn't play so well and Stuttgart had three chances. And that's why the goal was so important," added Squillaci.

"I'm pleased with my goals, but the most important thing is that Sevilla won. However, it is the first time that I've scored two goals in a game and I'm very happy."