Sevilla head coach Luis García Plaza has praised Super Eagles forward Akor Adams after the Nigerian striker came off the bench to score a dramatic stoppage-time winner in a 2-1 La Liga victory over Espanyol at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium on Saturday.

Adams was introduced in the second half and went on to deliver the decisive moment deep into stoppage time, sealing all three points for Sevilla in a crucial Round 35 fixture.

The comeback victory further boosted Sevilla’s survival hopes as they continue to distance themselves from the relegation zone in a tense end to the season.

Espanyol had taken the lead through Tyrhys Dolan after a defensive lapse from the home side, leaving Sevilla chasing the game for long spells.

However, the hosts gradually built pressure, forcing Espanyol deeper as the match approached its conclusion.

Their persistence paid off with an equaliser from Castrin before Adams completed the turnaround with a superb curling strike into the bottom corner, sparking celebrations across the stadium.

The goal was especially significant for the Nigerian forward, as it took his tally to nine goals for the season, underlining his growing importance in Sevilla’s attacking options.

Speaking after the match, García Plaza expressed his emotional reaction to the late winner and praised the collective spirit within his squad.

“I really celebrated Akor's goal. I've only been here six games, but I really empathize with the team,” the Sevilla coach said in comments published on the club’s official website.

He also highlighted the reaction from the bench and the unity shown within the squad during the dramatic finale.

“The bench came out to celebrate, and that's very important. You can't stop believing. It was a testament to that,” García Plaza added.

Wale Adejumo