UECL: Real Betis Advance in Conference League with Convincing Win

Real Betis dominated Vitoria Guimaraes 4-0 to advance to the UEFA Conference League quarterfinals, with Antony scoring and assisting in the convincing win.

Real Betis delivered a polished away performance, defeating Vitoria Guimaraes 4-0 in the second leg of their UEFA Conference League last-16 tie. This resounding victory propels Betis into the quarterfinals of a European competition for the first time in 25 years, since the 1997/98 season.

The electric atmosphere at the stadium, fueled by Vitoria's passionate supporters, was swiftly dampened as Real Betis seized an early advantage. Cedric Bakambu expertly slotted the ball through Bruno Varela's legs, having cleverly evaded the challenge of Toni Borevkovic. Despite this promising start, Betis could not afford to relax, particularly after surrendering the lead twice in the first leg, which ended in a 2-2 draw in Spain.

The visiting Betis supporters were relieved to see their team double their advantage in the 20th minute, courtesy of Cedric Bakambu's well-placed header. Aitor Ruibal's clipped pass found Bakambu, who capped off a slick attacking move with his second goal of the night. This two-goal cushion gave Betis a comfortable lead at the break.

A dominant performance from Real Betis 🤩#UECL pic.twitter.com/iZbBO6u7IW

— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) March 13, 2025

Vitoria Guimaraes emerged with renewed purpose in the second half, forcing Betis to endure a period of sustained pressure at the Estadio D. Afonso Henriques. However, just as the hosts were gathering momentum, Betis launched a swift counter-attack that ultimately sealed the tie. Antony, on loan from Manchester United, scored his fourth goal since joining the club in January. He latched onto Isco's intelligent through-ball, drove into the box, and drilled the ball past Bruno Varela at the near post.

Antony played a crucial role in adding the finishing touches to Betis's convincing away win. He burst away from Mikel Villanueva before providing a precise pass to Isco, who converted the opportunity with ease. This goal piled misery on Vitoria, condemning them to their first home defeat since September. Meanwhile, Manuel Pellegrini's Betis will advance to a quarterfinal clash against Polish outfit Jagiellonia Bialystok, eager to continue their European journey.