The stage is set for an exciting clash in the UEFA Conference League as Real Betis Balompié prepares to host Jagiellonia Bialystok on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 21:00 hours at the Estadio Benito Villamarín. The verdiblancos, under the guidance of Manuel Pellegrini, are riding high on a wave of optimism and momentum, aiming to secure a favorable result in the first leg of the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, the Polish side, Jagiellonia, is eager to make a statement in their debut in European competitions.
Real Betis enters this match with confidence, having gone eight matches without a loss, boasting six wins and two draws in that span. Their last defeat was in the second leg of the round of 32, where they fell narrowly after a strong showing in the first leg against Vitória de Guimarães, which ended in a 2-2 draw, followed by a resounding 4-0 victory in the return leg. This impressive turnaround has rekindled hopes of advancing further in Europe.
In their last few matches, Betis has shown resilience, including a significant victory over Real Madrid (2-1) and a hard-fought draw against FC Barcelona (1-1). As they prepare to face Jagiellonia, the team is focused on maintaining this positive trend. Pellegrini's squad has been rejuvenated after a shaky start to the season, and the manager has expressed his satisfaction with the team's current form and the support from their passionate fanbase.
However, the match won't be without its challenges. Betis will likely miss the services of Isco Alarcón, who is dealing with discomfort and has not been training regularly. Pellegrini confirmed that while Isco is included in the squad, his participation remains uncertain. Instead, Argentine midfielder Giovani Lo Celso may take up the role in the attacking midfield position. Additionally, Cucho Hernández is unavailable due to registration issues, paving the way for Cédrick Bakambu to lead the attack.
On the other side, Jagiellonia Bialystok arrives in Seville with aspirations of causing an upset. Founded in 1920, Jagiellonia has made significant strides in Polish football, currently sitting third in their domestic league, just four points behind leaders Raków. The team has been impressive in their European campaign, having advanced to the quarter-finals after defeating TSC Backa Topola and Círculo de Brujas, showcasing their capability on the continental stage.
Jagiellonia's recent form has been a mixed bag, as they suffered a 2-0 defeat in their last away match against Cercle Brugge, despite having won the first leg convincingly with a 3-0 scoreline. Their squad features three Spanish players: Jesús Imaz, Miki Villar, and goalkeeper Adrián Diéguez, who are expected to play crucial roles in their quest for victory. The star of the team is undoubtedly Afimico Pululu, the tournament's top scorer with eight goals, whose offensive prowess will be a focal point for the Betis defense.
As the two teams prepare to clash, the stakes are high. For Betis, advancing to the semi-finals would be a historic achievement, marking their first time reaching this stage in European competition. Pellegrini's men are determined to build on their recent successes and keep their dreams alive.
Pellegrini has emphasized the importance of focusing on this match while keeping an eye on their upcoming league fixture against Villarreal on April 13, 2025. He stated, "The best way to focus on both matches is to forget about Villarreal until Friday. Even if we lose, there will still be 24 points left to correct that defeat." This approach reflects the manager's strategic mindset as he aims to navigate the challenges of both domestic and European competitions.
With an electric atmosphere expected at the Benito Villamarín, fans are eager to see their team take the next step in their European journey. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a crucial advantage. Betis will need to capitalize on their home ground advantage, while Jagiellonia will look to surprise their hosts and keep their European dreams alive.
As the kickoff approaches, the excitement builds, and the players are ready to give their all on the pitch. Will Betis continue their impressive run, or will Jagiellonia pull off a remarkable upset? Only time will tell as these two teams battle for a place in the Conference League semi-finals.
