Luxemburgo: Real Madrid fought all the way

Real Madrid were held 2-2 by Seville yesterday, which allowed Barcelona to lift their first championship since 1999.
A late goal from Seville striker Julio Cesar Baptista virtually ended Real's challenge for the title.

 
It was the final chapter in a game that had everything and which during 90 dramatic minutes swung first one way and then the other.

Seville, who themselves needed to win to strengthen their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League, went ahead after 19 minutes when Sergio Ramos fired home a 35-yard free kick.

Roberto Carlos' low cross was then headed past his own keeper by Seville defender Javi Navarro and on 72 minutes Zidane Zinedine scored the second spectacular goal of the night with a 25-yard shot that put the visitors ahead.

At that moment Madrid's title dreams were still alive, but Seville dug deep to find a reaction as Baptista levelled the scores and broke Madrid's heart.

Real Madrid coach Vanderlei Luxembourg said afterwards, "It was a very even game.

"Except for the first 30 minutes, with greater domination by Seville, that put us under a lot of pressure. I believe that each team dominated a half."

He added: "We fought very hard against a rival which has some great players like Baptista, Jesus Navas and Sergio Ramos."