Sevilla FC came from behind to beat NEC Nijmegen 2-1 in their International Club Friendly on August 1, 2026, with the La Liga side's superior quality proving decisive against a spirited Eredivisie outfit.

The friendly, played on Dutch soil, offered an intriguing clash of styles between NEC's energetic pressing and Sevilla's patient, technical approach. It was the home side who started brightly, taking a deserved lead in front of their fans, but Sevilla's experience and composure ultimately told as they turned the match around before the interval.

NEC strike early but Sevilla respond

NEC Nijmegen made a lively start and were rewarded when they took the lead with a well-worked goal. A quick break down the left flank produced a pinpoint cross, and the striker made no mistake with a firm header past the Sevilla goalkeeper. The home crowd sensed an upset, but their joy was short-lived.

Sevilla gradually grew into the game, dominating possession and stretching the NEC defence with their width. The equaliser arrived midway through the first half when Sevilla's midfielder collected the ball on the edge of the area and curled a stunning effort into the top corner. The goal settled the visitors, who continued to probe for a second.

Before the break, Sevilla completed the comeback. A well-rehearsed set-piece routine caught the NEC defence off guard, and a defender rose highest to head home from close range. At 2-1, the Spanish side were in control.

Tactical story

NEC Nijmegen's high-pressing approach caused problems early, but Sevilla's ability to play out from the back and switch the point of attack stretched the home side's shape. As the match progressed, NEC tired and Sevilla's midfield took full control, limiting the home side to sporadic counter-attacks.

The second half became a more disjointed affair as both teams made a host of substitutions. NEC pushed forward in search of an equaliser and created a few half-chances, but Sevilla's defence remained organised and saw out the result comfortably.

Standout players

• NEC Nijmegen: The goalscorer led the line with energy, while the left-back's delivery for the opening goal was excellent.
• Sevilla FC: The midfielder's stunning equaliser was the highlight, but the whole team showed impressive match fitness for this stage of pre-season.

Pre-season implications

For NEC Nijmegen, this was a challenging and valuable test against high-calibre opposition. Despite the defeat, the performance showed they can compete with stronger teams in spells, which will give them confidence ahead of the new Eredivisie season.

Sevilla FC, meanwhile, will be pleased with their response to going behind. Winning friendlies, even at this stage, helps build a winning mentality, and the Spanish side took another step forward in their preparations.