Ezzalzouli fires Real Betis past Fiorentina to secure historic Europa Conference League Final vs Chelsea
Abde Ezzalzouli's extra-time winner sealed a dramatic 2-2 draw (4-3 aggregate) against Fiorentina, sending Real Betis into their first-ever major European final where they’ll face Chelsea in Wrocław.
Real Betis made history on Thursday night as they clinched a spot in the 2025 UEFA Europa Conference League Final after a thrilling encounter against Fiorentina at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. Following a 2-1 first-leg win in Seville, Manuel Pellegrini’s side battled to a 2-2 draw in Italy, sealing a 4-3 aggregate triumph.
The decisive blow came in extra time when Moroccan forward Abde Ezzalzouli buried a lethal finish from Antony's low cross, stunning the home crowd and ending Fiorentina’s dream of reaching a third consecutive Conference League final.
Conference League Semi-Final: Fiorentina 2-2 Real Betis (Agg: 3-4)
Match Highlights:
- Antony’s stunning free-kick gave Betis the lead on the night after 30 minutes.
- Robin Gosens scored twice before halftime to level the tie.
- Ezzalzouli netted the winner in extra time after a clinical counterattack.
- Isco and Ezzalzouli both came close late on, while David de Gea kept Fiorentina alive with heroic saves.
First-Half Drama: Antony and Gosens Trade Blows
On-loan Manchester United winger Antony opened proceedings with a sublime curling free-kick from 30 yards that nestled in the top-left corner. Fiorentina, however, struck back quickly with Robin Gosens scoring two similar headers — both from set-pieces — to turn the tide.
The first came off a corner from Rolando Mandragora, glanced past Fran Vieites, and the second, from Yacine Adli’s delivery, saw Gosens power a bullet header into the roof of the net.
Tactical Shift and Extra-Time Brilliance
Despite Fiorentina’s high pressing and control in the second half, Betis regrouped defensively and looked to hit on the break. The game was pushed into extra time thanks to key saves by David de Gea and last-ditch clearances from both sides.
The breakthrough came when Antony, reborn since joining Betis, broke down the right flank and delivered a pinpoint assist to Ezzalzouli, who smashed the ball into the net at the back post.
Final Confirmed: Chelsea vs Real Betis – Wrocław Awaits
Betis will now face Premier League giants Chelsea in the Conference League Final on May 28 at Stadion Wrocław. Chelsea booked their place after defeating Sweden’s Djurgarden 5-1 on aggregate.
This marks a milestone achievement for Real Betis, who had never reached a major European final before. The Spanish side now eyes their first European trophy in club history.
Match Stats & Insights
- Ezzalzouli scored his third goal of the 2024/25 Conference League campaign.
- Antony leads Betis in assists this tournament with three.
- Fiorentina scored 12 first-half goals in the tournament, second only to Chelsea’s 19.
- David de Gea made five saves, including two crucial stops to force extra time.
What’s Next?
The UEFA Europa Conference League Final 2025 between Chelsea and Real Betis promises fireworks as both sides chase silverware to salvage inconsistent domestic campaigns.
Can Ezzalzouli and Antony deliver again for Pellegrini’s side? Or will Chelsea’s firepower prove too much on Polish soil?
SportsLigue