Real Betis showcased their strength on March 13, 2025, with a commanding 4-0 victory over Vitoria Guimaraes at the Estádio Afonso Henriques, successfully qualifying for the quarterfinals of the UEFA Conference League. With this win, the aggregate score of 6-2 confirmed their advancement and highlighted the team’s growing prowess on the international stage, as they prepare to meet Jagiellonia Bialystok from Poland.
The match opened with excitement when Cédric Bakambu struck first for Betis just five minutes after the kickoff. After receiving a precise pass from Antony, Bakambu outmaneuvered the defender and expertly slotted the ball past Guimaraes' goalkeeper Bruno Varela. This early goal set the tone for the match, propelling the Seville-based team forward.
Not long after, at the 20-minute mark, Bakambu found the net again, exhibiting impressive aerial ability to head home Aitor Ruibal's cross, doubling the visitors’ lead and firmly establishing their dominance over the Portuguese side. Guimaraes struggled to create clear chances, falling prey to Betis’s relentless pressure.
Antony, who demonstrated great vision and speed throughout the match, scored the third goal at the 58th minute. After intercepting the ball near the halfway line, he embarked on an exhilarating solo run, eventually firing the ball past the helpless Varela. Isco rounded off the scoring at the 80-minute mark, connecting with Antony again to push the score to 4-0 and seal Betis's impressive victory.
Following the match, Antony expressed his joy, stating, "I'm very happy about the goal but happier about the victory. The team has been incredible. The spirit, and the mentality with which we started and finished was important." Meanwhile, Isco Alarcón articulated the satisfaction within the locker room, saying, "I'm very happy. It was one of the most complete games this year on difficult ground against a team undefeated in the competition."
With this win, Real Betis advanced to the quarterfinals of the UEFA Conference League for the first time this century and the third time overall, following their previous appearances in the 1977/78 and 1997/98 Recopa. The fans played their part, with approximately 1,700 supporters traveling to Guimaraes, providing fervent backing throughout the match.
Manager Manuel Pellegrini lauded his team’s performance and their ability to execute the game plan effectively, capably neutralizing any threats posed by Guimaraes. The coach's strategies paid off as his side controlled the match, allowing them to fend off the occasional attacks and maintain composure under pressure.
Looking ahead, Real Betis is eager to continue their impressive run as they prepare to face Jagiellonia Bialystok, who secured their place by eliminating Cercle Brugge of Belgium. The match on March 13 served as more than just a victory; it reinforced Betis’s ambitions and dreams of European glory. The team has clearly demonstrated their resolve and talent on the continental stage.
Fans and commentators alike are optimistic about the club's future, noting the contributions of key players like Bakambu, who has now netted six goals during this season's Conference League—an achievement recognizing him as the all-time top scorer for Betis in this competition. Such accomplishments underline the importance of their current campaign and reflect positively on both the players' performances and Pellegrini’s leadership.
With their eyes set firmly on the future and the desire to push beyond the quarterfinals, the players and coaching staff at Real Betis are eager for what lies ahead. The match was not only a key win but also served as validation for the hard work and unity displayed all season long.
Real Betis fans can revel in this success, cherishing the moment their team has returned to the upper echelons of European competition, ready to fight for more glory and perhaps writing another chapter of history for the club on the European front.