Sevilla look to return to winning ways in Europa League semis

Sevilla football club will look to pick themselves up and take a step towards the final of the Europa League for the second successive year when they entertain Italian side Fiorentina at the Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium here on Thursday.

Sevilla saw how Real Madrid ended their 34 game unbeaten run in front of their home supporters on Saturday. But now they have to return to winning ways if they want to retain the European trophy they won last campaign, reports Xinhua.

The club has launched a promotional video to inspire the fans and there will be a great atmosphere in the stadium, where the temperature on the pitch can also be expected to rise.

As always Sevilla coach Unai Emery is a smart mover when it comes to moving his squad. And after seeing his side's chances of finishing fourth in the La Liga virtually disappear in the wake of Saturday's defeat, he will field his strongest side.

That opens the debate as to whether Sergio Rico or Beto will play in goal, but Carlos Bacca will lead the attack, with the always effective Kevin Gameiro waiting his chance on the sub's bench.

There is also a question mark over midfielder Gregory Krychowiak, who had to leave the field for 10 fatal minutes to receive treatment for a face injury on Saturday.

Madrid scored twice in those minutes, but so vital is Krychowiak to his side that Emery was prepared to wait for his recovery and he will probably face Fiorentina wearing a protective mask.

One player who will miss out is defender Nico Pareja who underwent surgery for a broken knee ligament earlier this week and will be out for several months.

It should be hot, it should be fast and it should be a thriller as the Pizjuan looks to get back to winning ways.