Former United Players Shine as Betis Defeats Fiorentina 2-1 in Europa Conference League Semifinal
Real Betis secured a 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in the first leg of the Europa Conference League semifinals, with former Manchester United players Antony and Manuel Pellegrini playing key roles.
Real Betis took a significant step toward the Europa Conference League final with a 2-1 win over Fiorentina at the Benito Villamarín Stadium. The victory gives Manuel Pellegrini’s side an advantage ahead of the second leg in Florence.
Abdessamad Ezzalzouli opened the scoring for Betis just six minutes into the match, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Cédric Bakambu. Fiorentina responded with increased pressure but failed to convert their chances in the first half.
In the second half, Antony doubled Betis’ lead with a stunning long-range strike in the 64th minute, further solidifying his importance to Pellegrini’s squad. Fiorentina managed to pull one back through Luca Ranieri in the 73rd minute, but Betis held on for a crucial victory.
The match ended 2-1, leaving Fiorentina with a tough challenge in the return leg at the Artemio Franchi Stadium.
