In the first European final ever staged behind closed doors, it was an astonishing anti-climax for Lukaku after he had earlier set the longest scoring run by a player in UEFA Cup/Europa League history by netting in the 11th successive game.
In contrast, it ended as a dream final for Sevilla’s Diego Carlos, who could easily have been sent off after he fouled Lukaku to give away the early penalty which the towering Belgian striker converted.
Lukaku also equalled former Brazil striker Ronaldo’s club record of 34 goals for Inter in a season in all competitions, but it was scant consolation as gritty Sevilla claimed a record-extending sixth Europa League crown in just 14 years.
Sevilla captain Jesus Navas declared: “This squad deserves it. We fought all year, experienced the difficult situation, like everyone, tried to get through day by day” he added on Sky Sports.