Nigerian forward Jerome Akor has expressed his joy after netting the decisive goal in Sevilla’s hard-fought 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga.

Akor came off the bench to make the difference at the Campo de Fútbol de Vallecas, firing home from inside the box just three minutes from time. The strike marked his first goal of the season for the Rojiblancos.

Reflecting on the victory, the 24-year-old praised his teammates’ fighting spirit despite heavy pressure from the hosts. “I had the opportunity to come on, I was prepared and working hard, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity. We didn’t give up,” Akor told Sevilla’s official website.

The result lifts morale in Matias Almeyda’s camp ahead of a tough test against reigning champions Barcelona this weekend.