Dybala emotionally celebrated goal in UEL final

Watch: Dybala shares emotional moment with Roma physio after scoring opening goal in UEL final vs. Sevilla

May 31, 2023 By Ali M.

Topics: Paulo Dybala, Jose Mourinho, Roma, Sevilla, Europa League Final, UEFA Europa League

24 hours before kick-off, the Argentine was unlikely to start. However, not only was he named in the lineup, but the former Juventus ace also gave his side the precious lead.

A day before kick-off, Paulo Dybala was uncertain to start in the UEFA Europa League final. Fast forward to Wednesday's showdown and not only did the Argentine start, but he also scored the crucial opener against Sevilla.

The former Juventus attacker was deemed fit to make the trip to Budapest despite suffering an ankle injury over a month ago against Atalanta. However, Jose Mourinho hinted that the South American sensation wasn't fit enough to start.

Fortunately for the Italian heavyweight, Dybala was named in the lineup for the UEFA Europa League final against Sevilla. The attacker started up front alongside Tammy Abraham and needed only 34 minutes to show why he's worth his weight in goal at the Giallorossi.

Just after the half-an-hour mark, Ivan Rakitic was robbed of possession in Sevilla's own half, with Gianluca Mancini setting Paulo through on goal. The Argentine wouldn't miss this brilliant opportunity to break the deadlock, netting past a helpless Yassine Bounou to give Mourinho's men a precious 1-0 lead.

And the 29-year-old celebrated this goal in the best way possible: with the team's physio who helped him recover in time for the final. The pair shared an emotional embrace at the corner flag, with Dybala showing his appreciation for the staff member. Check out this warm moment in the clips below (videos are geo-restricted).

WELCOME BACK PAULO DYBALA. pic.twitter.com/6BMo3BQfDB
— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) May 31, 2023

Paulo Dybala gives Roma the lead!!

No reaction whatsoever from Jose Mourinho...#UELfinal pic.twitter.com/YGm0pgXLGJ
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 31, 2023

Roma's physio got in there to celebrate with Paulo Dybala first pic.twitter.com/CJPdiTGzrV
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 31, 2023

Mourinho, meanwhile, wasn't letting the emotions get the better of him. The Special One barely celebrated the opener, instead calling his players and staff back to the bench and letting everyone know they should remain calm. His reaction quickly went viral on social media as Roma took one huge step towards winning the UEFA Europa League title.