By David Awopetu
Europa League kings, Sevilla, won the tournament for a record sixth time, thanks to victory over Inter Milan in a thrilling final in Cologne.
Romelu Lukaku played a part in both teams’ goals as Sevilla beat Inter Milan 3-2 on Friday to win the Europa League for a record-extending sixth time.
The Inter forward deflected Diego Carlos’ overhead kick into his own net for Sevilla’s winning goal in the 74th minute, after a game-long duel with the Brazilian defender.
Diego Carlos had fouled Lukaku in the third minute, conceding a penalty for the third game in a row, and was perhaps fortunate to avoid a red card.
It means Inter Milan’s wait for a trophy will tick over into a 10th year at least.
Lukaku gave the Italian side an early lead from the penalty spot for his 34th goal of the season, extending his record of scoring in consecutive Europa League games to 11.
Luuk de Jong scored two headers – from Jesus Navas and Ever Banega crosses – to put Sevilla into the lead.
Inter were level when Diego Godin nodded in to make it 2-2 in the 35th minute.
The game could not continue at that high tempo, but with extra-time on the cards, there was a twist to come.
Carlos flew into the air to meet a high ball with an overhead kick which was going wide until Lukaku stuck out a leg and diverted it past his own goalkeeper.
It was a first trophy in the managerial career of Sevilla boss, Julen Lopetegui, whose side are unbeaten since February, a run of 21 games.
“This is a magnificent club,” said the former Spain and Real Madrid boss. “I hope all the fans can celebrate it but with caution.
“This squad are great. They believe in it, what they work on and what they transmit. Even if we hadn’t won, I’d still love these guys, but today we take home the prize. We always believed.”
The last nine Europa Leagues all have been won by Spanish or English teams – Sevilla have won four, Chelsea two and Atletico Madrid and Manchester United one each. The last Italian team to win were Parma in 1999.
