In a thrilling display of passion and determination, Real Betis triumphed over their fierce rivals Sevilla with a 2-1 victory in the latest Seville derby, marking a significant moment for the club and its fans. This victory not only ended a nearly seven-year wait for a derby win in La Liga but also showcased the transformative impact of Brazilian winger Antony, who has quickly become a fan favorite since joining the club on loan from Manchester United.
The Benito Villamarín stadium was packed to the rafters, with a record crowd of 58,538 fans witnessing the historic match on March 30, 2025. The atmosphere was electric, as Betis supporters belted out their club anthem, creating a vibrant backdrop for the players as they took to the pitch. This derby, steeped in local rivalry, has always been more than just a game; it’s a celebration of identity and pride for the people of Seville.
Betis midfielder Isco, who has been instrumental in the team’s resurgence, expressed his joy following the match, stating, "This is incredible. I’ve been at big clubs with incredible fans but never seen this." The former Real Madrid star highlighted the significance of the win, emphasizing the emotional connection the players have with their supporters. "We’ve noticed a change since Antony arrived; he brings us a lot," Isco added, referring to the Brazilian’s immediate impact on the team.
Antony, who has been on loan at Betis since January, has made his presence felt on the pitch, contributing four goals and four assists in just 12 appearances. His performance in the derby was no exception, as he played a crucial role in turning the tide for Betis after they fell behind to an early goal from Sevilla’s Rubén Vargas.
After Vargas opened the scoring in the 17th minute, Betis responded with determination. Johnny Cardoso equalized with a superb volley, followed by Cucho Hernández’s quick finish just before halftime, sealing the comeback. The players and fans erupted in celebration, with Isco providing a stunning assist for Hernández’s goal, showcasing his playmaking abilities that have been pivotal for Betis this season.
The victory was particularly sweet for Betis, as it marked their first derby win in La Liga since 2018, a long-awaited achievement that had eluded them for nearly seven years. The players celebrated on the pitch for over half an hour after the final whistle, a testament to the relief and joy that came with the win. "This is what this lovely sport gives us," Adrián, the Betis goalkeeper, remarked, encapsulating the emotions felt throughout the stadium.
Despite the jubilant atmosphere, there are concerns about the club's financial situation regarding Antony’s future. Isco suggested that Betis may need to consider crowdfunding to secure Antony’s services for another season. "We have to crowdfund so he can stay at least another year," he stated, highlighting the club’s financial constraints while emphasizing the importance of keeping the talented winger.
Antony joined Manchester United from Ajax for a staggering fee of £81 million in 2022 but struggled to find his footing in the Premier League, scoring only one goal in the league since April 2023. His loan to Betis has revitalized his career, allowing him to showcase his skills in a more favorable environment. "I have found myself here," Antony said after the match, reflecting on his positive experience in Seville.
As the team prepares for the remainder of the season, they currently sit sixth in La Liga, level on points with Villarreal, and are in contention for a Champions League spot. This win against Sevilla not only boosts their morale but also reinforces their ambitions for the season ahead. The players are eager to continue their winning streak, having secured six consecutive victories in the league.
The derby victory also holds historical significance, as Betis had not come back from a goal down to win a derby at home since 1940. This statistic adds to the emotional weight of the victory, marking a turning point for the club under the management of Manuel Pellegrini.
As the celebrations continued late into the night, the players and supporters alike reveled in the moment, with many expressing their hopes for a bright future for Betis. The club's rich history, combined with the current success, has reignited the passion of its fanbase, making them a formidable force in Spanish football.
Looking ahead, the challenge remains to build on this momentum and secure Antony’s future at the club. Isco's call for crowdfunding reflects the collective desire of players and fans to retain a player who has quickly become integral to the team's success. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Betis as they aim to solidify their position in the league and continue their quest for glory.
In conclusion, the Seville derby victory not only serves as a reminder of the fierce rivalry between Betis and Sevilla but also highlights the transformative power of football to unite and inspire. The journey is far from over, but with players like Antony and Isco leading the charge, Betis fans have every reason to believe that brighter days are ahead.
