Sevilla’s Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos acknowledged the significant role his wife played in helping him save a crucial penalty in the Andalusian team’s recent match.
Last Sunday, Vlachodimos saved his team, Sevilla, from defeat by stopping a penalty taken by Girona’s veteran striker Cristhian Stuani in stoppage time of the match played at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium for the 23rd round of La Liga, preserving a 1-1 draw.
Vlachodimos (31 years old) made headlines after the match, but he did not want to take all the credit for himself, pointing out that his wife and the goalkeeping coach helped him decide which way to dive.
Sevilla Goalkeeper’s Wife Helps Him Save a Penalty
Vlachodimos said, “I spoke with my wife about this last week, and with the goalkeeping coach Arturo González, and we decided I should dive to the left. I was very excited to stop the ball.”
Commenting on the goalkeeper’s moment, it was noted, “Many imagine a penalty as a one-on-one duel between the goalkeeper and the striker, but for Vlachodimos it was more like 3 against 1,” referring to the assistance he received from his wife and Sevilla’s goalkeeping coach.
This save was the culmination of a great match for Vlachodimos, who made 5 impactful saves, including his first penalty save of the 2025-2026 season.
The Greek goalkeeper added, “I don’t know if this was my best match with Sevilla, I can’t judge. I always try to give my best in every training session and every match.”
Vlachodimos joined Sevilla last summer, arriving from Newcastle United on a one-season loan.
Vlachodimos has played 20 matches in all competitions for Sevilla this season
Since arriving at the Andalusian club, Vlachodimos has played 20 matches in all competitions, conceding 32 goals while keeping a clean sheet in only 3 matches.
Sevilla occupies 13th place in the standings with 25 points, trailing 12th-placed Girona by just one point.
Sevilla will host Deportivo Alavés next Saturday at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium for the 24th round of La Liga.
Sevilla
Seville is a historic city in southern Spain, renowned for landmarks like the Seville Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece built on the site of a former mosque, and the Alcázar, a royal palace with Moorish architectural roots. Its history is deeply tied to Roman, Islamic, and Christian influences, and it later became a major port during Spain’s exploration of the Americas. The city is also famous as the birthplace of flamenco and for its vibrant festivals like the Feria de Abril.
Girona
Girona is a historic city in Catalonia, Spain, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including its iconic cathedral and the ancient Jewish Quarter (El Call). Its history spans Roman foundations, significant medieval Jewish heritage, and numerous sieges, most famously against French troops in 1809 during the Napoleonic Wars.
Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium
The Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium is the home of Sevilla FC in Seville, Spain, inaugurated in 1958 and named after a former club president. It is historically significant for hosting the 1982 FIFA World Cup matches and the 1986 European Cup final. The stadium is renowned for its intense atmosphere and is considered a fortress for the team.
La Liga
La Liga is the top professional football division in Spain, founded in 1929. It is one of the world’s most prestigious football leagues, historically dominated by clubs such as Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United is a professional football club based in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, founded in 1892. Historically, the club has been a mainstay of English football, winning four First Division titles in the early 20th century and becoming known for its passionate fanbase at St James’ Park stadium.
Deportivo Alavés
Deportivo Alavés is a professional football club based in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, founded in 1921. The club is historically known for its passionate local support and its memorable run to the 2001 UEFA Cup final, where they narrowly lost to Liverpool. It primarily competes in Spain’s top two divisions, with its home matches played at the Estadio Mendizorrotza.
