Rousing fightback sends Sevilla third

Argentine defender Gabriel Mercado sealed a stunning Sevilla fightback from 2-0 down at Deportivo la Coruna on Saturday to send the Europa League holders third in La Liga with a 3-2 win.

Sevilla’s demons away from home looked set to strike once more when Ryan Babel’s first-minute opener and a wonderful individual effort from Florin Andone handed struggling Deportivo a 2-0 lead.

However, in-form French midfielder Steven N’Zonzi launched the comeback with a vital goal just before half-time to give Sevilla hope.

Jorge Sampaoli then introduced Spanish international Vitolo at the break and Sevilla were transformed in the second half.

The visitors had to wait until three minutes from time to level when Vitolo fired home at the back post despite Przemyslaw Tyton’s best efforts.

And Tyton was beaten again deep into stoppage time when he saved Nico Pareja’s first effort, but Mercado followed up to blast home the rebound.

Sevilla move to within three points of leaders Real Madrid ahead of the European champions’ trip to Atletico Madrid later on Saturday.

Before kick-off at the Vicente Calderon, second-placed Barcelona can go top with victory at home to Malaga.