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Manchester United suffered a 1-2 defeat to Sevilla in the Europa League semi-final, ending their hopes of silverware this season. Sevilla dominated the first half, and Lucas Ocampos headed in a goal in the second half to give them the lead. United responded quickly through a Bruno Fernandes penalty, but a late goal by Sevilla’s Luuk de Jong clinched the win. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, United could not find the back of the net and paid the price for their profligacy.

Sevilla started brightly, pressing United high up the pitch and creating several chances. United failed to get a foothold in the game, and Sevilla’s high press paid off in the 26th minute when Sergio Reguilon set up Suso, but his shot went just wide of the post. Sevilla took the lead in the 56th minute when Ocampos headed in a cross from Jesús Navas. United responded almost immediately, winning a penalty when Fernandes was brought down in the box. Fernandes dispatched the penalty with ease to level the scores.

United pushed forward in search of a winner, but it was Sevilla who got the decisive goal in the 78th minute. De Jong tapped in from close range after a cross from Éver Banega. United continued to press for an equalizer, but Sevilla held on for the win. The defeat means United end the season without a trophy, despite finishing third in the Premier League and reaching the semi-finals of the FA Cup and Europa League. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will now turn his attention to strengthening his squad ahead of the new season.

Sevilla, meanwhile, will play Inter Milan in the final on Friday. The Spanish side, who have won the Europa League five times in the last 15 years, will be looking to add another trophy to their collection. The final will be played in Germany, behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui will be hoping his side can produce the same performance that saw off United and clinch the trophy.

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