Eusebio Di Francesco once again cursed Sassuolo’s luck after a 3-2 defeat to Athletic Bilbao ended their Europa League hopes.

The Neroverdi had taken an early lead with a comical own goal, but after losing Lorenzo Pellegrini and Davide Biondini to injury almost simultaneously, they crumbled at the San Mames.

“At the moment things just seem to be going wrong for us and we are not rewarded for our efforts,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

Eusebio Di Francesco once again cursed Sassuolo’s luck after a 3-2 defeat to Athletic Bilbao ended their Europa League hopes.

The Neroverdi had taken an early lead with a comical own goal, but after losing Lorenzo Pellegrini and Davide Biondini to injury almost simultaneously, they crumbled at the San Mames.

“At the moment things just seem to be going wrong for us and we are not rewarded for our efforts,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.

"Biondini's injury appears to be the most serious, they're talking about the Achilles tendon, so he will require tests.

“On the goals we conceded, you could see all our naivete and inexperience. It was only to be expected in such a difficult arena, even if we played Athletic on equal terms.

“We just didn’t do well enough to finish the chance for 2-2 with Gregoire Defrel. We knew that we’d struggle on set plays, but in terms of the performance I cannot ask for more from my lads.

“We always do play pretty well recently, but don’t get the results and that’s a pity.”

Sassuolo had beaten Athletic 3-0 at the Mapei Stadium in the opening game, but losing Domenico Berardi for three months has had a devastating effect on their Serie A and Europa League form.

“Look at where we’ve come from and the experience we’ve got, then look at how much trouble we caused for Athletic. We are new to certain competitions and you learn via your mistakes.”

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