The coach silenced the press conference when speaking about war, compassion, and the power of football.

Prior to the La Liga clash with Barcelona last week, Sevilla FC's coach Matías Almeyda expressed deep emotions regarding war, people, and the real significance of football, following the club and supporters' fundraising to assist a long-standing fan with cancer treatment.

Before Sevilla prepared for their crucial match against Barcelona on March 15, the most touching story at the club unfolded off the pitch. The Andalusian team and its fans jointly helped a loyal supporter named María del Mar, who urgently needed treatment for a malignant jaw cancer.

The 43-year-old woman grew up loving Sevilla since the era when club legend Davor Suker played. Her devotion to the team is so profound that she even has tattoos related to Sevilla on her body.

Recently, doctors diagnosed María del Mar with a serious illness requiring intensive treatment in Almería. The treatment cost is around €11,000, a sum too large for her and her husband given their current situation.

As soon as the story spread, Sevilla and its fans quickly rallied to raise the necessary funds, enabling María del Mar to start the urgent treatment she needed.

This story deeply moved coach Matías Almeyda. At the pre-match press conference against Barcelona, the Argentine strategist took time to discuss football's meaning and the human values this sport can bring.

"Football is something wonderful. It awakens emotions in people, and many of us live through it. It allows us to meet people, travel everywhere, and experience different cultures," Almeyda shared.

He then expanded his thoughts beyond sports, mentioning the contrast between football and the harsh realities of the world. "Today wars are still happening, yet we are here talking about a match against Barcelona. Something is wrong. It feels strange to think about tactics and opponents while knowing so many things are happening in the world outside."

The Sevilla coach also criticized global priorities he believes are misplaced. "We spend billions on weapons and missiles while people still suffer hunger. Why isn't that money used for food or education?"

According to Almeyda, modern society is becoming increasingly individualized, making people more distant. "We live in a very selfish world, even in football. I enjoy inviting people to watch team training. I'm happy when someone asks for a photo together. Thirty years ago, fans regularly came to training sessions. Today we often forget those simple connections."

In the subsequent away match, Sevilla lost 2-5. This result dropped them one place in the La Liga 2025-26 standings, falling to 15th with 31 points after 28 rounds. Meanwhile, Barcelona maintained the top spot with a 4-point lead over chasing Real Madrid.