MADRID (AP) — Coach Jorge Sampaoli felt Sevilla needed a big win against a top opponent to establish itself as a true contender in Spain.
He got just that on Sunday as his team defeated previously unbeaten Atletico Madrid 1–0 to stay near the top of the Spanish league.
French midfielder Steven N'Zonzi netted the winner in the 73rd minute at a packed Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium to give the hosts their third straight win.
"It was an important game to consolidate ourselves against a team that looked unbeatable," Sampaoli said. "We did well against one of the best teams in the world.