Chelsea produced a scintillating second-half performance to defeat Real Betis 4-1 in the UEFA Europa Conference League final, securing the only major European trophy that had previously eluded them and writing a new chapter in the club’s illustrious history.
Real Betis, making their debut in a European final, started with intensity and ambition. Their pressing paid off in the 9th minute when Isco intercepted a Chelsea pass and released Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, who fired a low left-footed shot past goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen to give Betis a deserved lead. Betis continued to threaten, with Johnny Cardoso missing a golden opportunity to double the advantage after another incisive move led by Ezzalzouli. Chelsea, despite enjoying 66% possession in the first half, struggled to create clear chances and looked vulnerable on the counter, particularly down Malo Gusto’s flank.
Manager Enzo Maresca’s halftime adjustments proved decisive. Reece James replaced Gusto at right-back, immediately providing more composure and balance.Chelsea’s midfield, led by Enzo Fernández and orchestrated by Cole Palmer, began to dominate proceedings.
Chelsea’s second-half dominance was reflected in the statistics: 7 shots on target to Betis’ 3, 592 completed passes, and a clinical edge in front of goal.
Cole Palmer: The standout performer, registering two assists and dictating play in the final third. His creativity and composure were instrumental.
Enzo Fernández: Scored the crucial equalizer and controlled the tempo in midfield.
Nicolas Jackson: Worked tirelessly and put Chelsea ahead with a poacher’s finish.
Jadon Sancho: Impactful off the bench, scoring a brilliant goal to make it 3-1.
Reece James: Brought stability and attacking thrust after his introduction at halftime.
Isco: Outstanding in the first half, providing the assist for the opening goal and orchestrating Betis’ attacks.
Abdessamad Ezzalzouli: Scored early and remained a threat on the left.
Johnny Cardoso: Impressive in midfield but missed a key chance to extend Betis’ lead.
Adrian: The veteran goalkeeper made some saves but struggled as Chelsea’s attack grew relentless.
Enzo Maresca (Chelsea Head Coach):
“This is a historic moment for Chelsea. The players showed incredible character to come from behind and dominate the second half. Winning all four European trophies is something special for the club and our fans.”
Cole Palmer (Chelsea Midfielder):
“I’m proud to have helped the team with two assists. We knew we had to step up after the break, and everyone delivered. This is what Chelsea is about—winning on the biggest stage.”
Manuel Pellegrini (Real Betis Head Coach):
“We played a fantastic first half and could have been further ahead. Chelsea’s quality showed in the second half, but I’m proud of my players and what we achieved this season. We will learn and come back stronger.”
Isco (Real Betis Midfielder):
“It hurts to lose, especially after such a strong start. We gave everything, but Chelsea were better in the second half. We’ll take the positives from this journey.”
With this victory, Chelsea become the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions—the Champions League, Europa League, Cup Winners’ Cup, and now the Conference League—cementing their status among Europe’s elite. For Betis, despite the disappointment, their run to the final and spirited first-half display will be remembered as a landmark achievement in the club’s history.
(Goals: Ezzalzouli 9’ | Fernández 65’, Jackson 70’, Sancho 83’, Caicedo 90+1’)