Sevilla head coach Matías Almeyda has defended his decision to substitute Nigerian striker Akor Adams during the club's 1-1 draw against Girona at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium on Sunday.

Adams was withdrawn in the 74th minute, with Sevilla trailing 1–0, as former Arsenal and Barcelona forward Alexis Sánchez was introduced in a tactical switch to influence the closing stages of the match.

The change paid off with defender Kike Salas scoring a late goal to secure a point for the hosts, despite criticism from sections of supporters, who argued that Adams' presence could have been crucial as Sevilla pushed for an equaliser.

Speaking during his post-match conference, Almeyda stressed that Sánchez was signed to make an impact in decisive moments of matches.

"(Chilean) Alexis had to play that decisive part of the game, because that's what he came for," Almeyda said as reported by Mundo Deportivo.

Almeyda also played down the criticism regarding Adams' removal, noting that Sevilla's attacking issues were not solely dependent on having a central reference point.

"With or without a reference point, they haven't scored a header because, in addition, the crosses aren't the best," he added.

Adams has been in sensational form in his last five matches in La Liga, scoring four goals while producing an assist.

His contributions have been instrumental in Sevilla's push for a European place as they continue to pull clear of the relegation battle.

Adeyemi Adewale