A look at the best Europa League finals
Arsenal and Chelsea gear up for an all English finale in the 2018-19 Europa League. This is quite an important match for both the Premier League clubs in terms of salvaging their season. Chelsea qualified for the Champions League, but Arsenal's route depends on winning this game. Ahead of their battle, we look at some of the best Europa League finals.
Sevilla stunned their league rivals Espanyol in this blockbuster UEFA Cup finale in 2006-07. The match ended 2-2 after 120 minutes after Espanyol fought back twice to equalize. During the shoot-out, Espanyol missed three penalties to hand Sevilla a 3-1 shoot-out victory on the night. Sevilla showed their nerves to successfully defend the trophy. Antonio Puerta scored the winning spot-kick for Sevilla.
Sevilla took on Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool in this entertaining Europa League final in 2015-16. The Spanish side went down after a Daniel Sturridge goal in the 35th minute. After half-time, it was a different Sevilla altogether. Kevin Gameiro equalized for the side, before a brace from Coke settled matters. This win was of huge significance as Sevilla won three successive Europa League titles.
This was the season where the UEFA Cup came to be known as the Europa League. Spanish giants Atletico Madrid became worthy champions after downing a spirited Fulham side in Hamburg. Fulham had a dream run that season and Atletico produced spirited displays in the knock-out rounds. The final went into extra-time and it was Diego Forlan's winner that settled the tie at 2-1.
Benfica and Chelsea fought it out in the 2012-13 Europa League final in Amsterdam. Chelsea's Fernando Torres scored a beautiful goal midway through the second half. Oscar Cardozo equalized eight minutes later from the penalty spot. Just when fans thought that the match was heading into extra-time, Branislav Ivanovic headed home a goal in the 93rd minute. Chelsea celebrated their maiden Europa League win.
