Generelo keeps Zaragoza marching

Real Zaragoza are in a strong position to qualify from UEFA Cup Group C after coming from behind to defeat already-qualified FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk 2-1 at La Romareda stadium. The visitors took an early lead before Sávio Bortolini and David Generelo struck back to secure the victory.

Getting ahead
Dnipro, who had won all their previous three games in this group, looked like maintaining that record with an early goal. It was the first time Dnipro had faced Spanish opposition in UEFA competition, but they were undaunted and Volodymyr Yezerskyy found the net after just two minutes. The big defender rose highest to nod a free-kick beyond Luis García in the Zaragoza goal.

Sávio rocket
The home side responded with a set-piece goal of their own, equalising just seven minutes later. Sávio, formerly of Real Madrid CF and FC Girondins de Bordeaux, stepped up to take a direct free-kick and fired it powerfully into the Dnipro goal. The visiting goalkeeper, Vyacheslav Kernozenko, did not even move.

Ryukin influential
With the scores level, the game was keenly contested by both sides. Zaragoza played a physical game, the whole team pulling together in an impressive display of tenacity and courage. For Dnipro, Olxandr Ryukin was dictating the play, and was hugely influential in all their attacking moves.

Generelo winner
On 73 minutes, substitute Generelo secured this crucial victory for Zaragoza. Finding space outside the area, the 22-year-old Spanish midfield player looked up and sent a looping shot over Kernozenko and into the goal.

Crucial fixture
The win consolidates Zaragoza's grip on second place in the group. They now await the visit of Club Brugge KV on 16 December for a decisive fixture. Victory would guarantee their place in the next round, but with Brugge and FK Austria Wien still in contention, they will need to play with the kind of character they showed here.