In an exhilarating showdown at the Artemio Franchi Stadium in Florence, Italy, Real Betis managed to secure a spot in the UEFA Conference League final after a thrilling 2-2 draw against Fiorentina on May 8, 2025. The aggregate score of 4-3 saw Betis advance, setting the stage for an exciting clash against Chelsea in the grand final.
The match, attended by 21,252 passionate fans, was officiated by Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg. Both teams came into this second leg of the semi-final with high stakes, and the intensity was palpable from the first whistle. Fiorentina, needing to overturn a 1-2 deficit from the first leg, started with fervor, pushing for an early goal to shift the momentum in their favor.
Real Betis struck first in the match with a stunning free kick from Antony in the 30th minute. The Spanish forward’s left-footed shot hit the post before finding the back of the net, giving the visitors a crucial away goal and putting them ahead 3-1 on aggregate. This goal sent the Betis fans into a frenzy, as they hoped to see their team secure a place in the final.
However, Fiorentina responded with determination. In the 34th minute, Robin Gosens found the net with a powerful shot, leveling the score at 1-1 for the match and narrowing the aggregate lead to 3-2. Just eight minutes later, Gosens struck again, this time from a corner kick, bringing the aggregate score to a thrilling 3-3 and igniting hopes among the home supporters.
As the first half concluded, the atmosphere was electric, with both teams exchanging chances. Fiorentina had shown resilience, but Betis maintained composure, looking to exploit any defensive lapses from their opponents.
The second half began with Fiorentina taking control of possession, as they aimed to capitalize on their home advantage. They pressed forward, creating several opportunities, but Betis' defense held firm. The match continued to ebb and flow, with both sides struggling to find that decisive edge.
As the clock ticked down, the tension escalated. Fiorentina's Amir Richardson received a yellow card, reflecting the mounting pressure on both teams. Despite their efforts, the home side was unable to convert their chances, and the match entered extra time with the score still level.
In the first period of extra time, the intensity reached new heights. Betis capitalized on a counterattack, with Antony delivering a brilliant assist to Abde Ezzalzouli, who slotted the ball home in the 97th minute. This goal not only put Betis ahead in the match but also gave them a 4-3 lead on aggregate, sending their supporters into raptures.
Fiorentina, now facing elimination, threw everything they had into the attack. They made tactical substitutions, hoping to regain control and find the equalizer. The final minutes saw the home side pressing hard, with all eleven players forward for a corner kick, desperately seeking a goal to send the match to penalties.
Despite their best efforts, the Fiorentina players struggled to break through Betis' resolute defense. The visitors held their ground, utilizing their experience to manage the game and absorb the pressure. As the final whistle blew, the realization set in for Fiorentina that their hopes of advancing had been dashed.
Real Betis’ qualification for the UEFA Conference League final marks a significant achievement for the club, especially after a tough semi-final battle. They will now face Chelsea, who secured their place in the final with a commanding 4-1 aggregate victory over Djurgardens IF in the other semi-final.
Reflecting on the match, Betis manager expressed pride in his team’s performance. "We showed great character and resilience throughout the match. The players executed our game plan effectively, and I couldn’t be happier with their efforts," he stated. The excitement builds as fans eagerly await the final showdown against Chelsea, where Betis will look to seize their moment on the grand stage.
This match served as a testament to the unpredictability of knockout football, where fortunes can change in an instant. Fiorentina will undoubtedly analyze their performance, looking to learn and grow from this experience as they prepare for future challenges.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, attention now shifts to the final, where Real Betis will aim to secure their place in history against a formidable Chelsea side. Football fans around the world are in for an exciting showdown as the UEFA Conference League final approaches.
