In a thrilling encounter at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, Fiorentina and Real Betis faced off in the second leg of the Conference League semi-final on May 8, 2025. The match, which saw both teams desperate for a spot in the final, ended in a dramatic 2-1 victory for Fiorentina, forcing the game into extra time and leveling the aggregate score at 3-3.
Fiorentina started strong, with Antony of Betis opening the scoring with a stunning free kick in the 29th minute. The Brazilian's effort curled beautifully into the net, giving the visitors a crucial lead. However, the joy was short-lived for Betis as Robin Gosens struck back for Fiorentina, scoring twice in quick succession. The German international leveled the match in the 33rd minute, capitalizing on a corner, and then added a second just before halftime, again from a set piece, sending the home fans into a frenzy.
As the match progressed into the second half, both teams had their chances, but neither could find the back of the net. Betis, buoyed by their traveling support of around 1,200 fans, pushed hard for an equalizer but were met by a resolute Fiorentina defense. The game remained tense, with both sides exchanging opportunities but failing to convert, leading to a nail-biting finish.
With the score at 2-1 in favor of Fiorentina at the end of regulation, the aggregate score was tied at 3-3, forcing the match into extra time. The tension was palpable as both teams regrouped, knowing that just 30 more minutes stood between them and the final in Breslavia.
During extra time, the intensity remained high. Pellegrini made strategic substitutions, bringing in Altimira and Ruibal for Fornals and Bakambu, looking for fresh legs to push for a decisive goal. The match saw several yellow cards, including one for Fagioli of Fiorentina, who was cautioned for a foul on Antony as he attempted to break forward.
Fiorentina's goalkeeper, David De Gea, was a standout performer, making crucial saves to keep his team in the game. In the dying moments of the match, he made a double save that had the Betis fans gasping. First, he denied Antony's powerful shot from close range and then reacted quickly to block a follow-up effort from Bellerín.
As the clock ticked down, both teams seemed to sense the weight of the occasion. A moment of brilliance or a costly mistake could decide the fate of the match. The Fiorentina players were visibly exhausted but remained focused, knowing that a single goal could send them through to the final. The same could be said for Betis, who were pushing hard for a chance to secure their first European final.
Despite the pressure, neither team could find the breakthrough in extra time. The match ended with both teams still tied, and the aggregate score remaining at 3-3, leading to a tense penalty shootout to decide who would advance to the final.
In the post-match analysis, Pellegrini expressed pride in his team's performance, stating, "We played well and created chances, but we need to be more clinical in front of goal. The match was intense, and I'm proud of how the players handled the pressure. Now, we have to focus on the penalties." Meanwhile, Fiorentina's coach, Raffaele Palladino, praised his squad's resilience, saying, "We showed great character to come back and fight for this result. We are ready for the final challenge ahead of us."
As both teams prepared for the shootout, the atmosphere was electric. Fans from both sides held their breath, knowing that the next few moments would determine who would move on to the final. With the stakes so high, every kick would count.
This match not only showcased the talent of both teams but also highlighted the passion of European football, with fans and players alike fully invested in the outcome. With the final whistle, the stage was set for a dramatic conclusion to a thrilling semi-final.
As Betis and Fiorentina head into the penalty shootout, the excitement is palpable. Who will emerge victorious and secure their place in the final? The football world waits with bated breath to find out.
