UECL: Real Betis Wins Thrilling First Leg Against Fiorentina

Real Betis takes a narrow 2-1 lead into the second leg of the UEFA Conference League semi-final after beating Fiorentina in Seville.

Real Betis secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League semi-final. The win means Betis will take a slender advantage into the second leg in Florence.

Betis's strong start paid off as they scored the opening goal, continuing their trend in the competition. Cedric Bakambu's clever play set up Abde Ezzalzouli for a simple tap-in, giving Los Verdiblancos the early advantage. Antony later scored again for Betis, while Fiorentina's efforts were marked by a lone goal.

Cedric Bakambu's shot hit the underside of the bar from close range, causing a delay as goal-line technology confirmed the ball hadn't crossed the line. Michael Oliver's decision ultimately awarded Betis the opening goal.

Advantage Real Betis 💪#UECL pic.twitter.com/BmQstJwvDb

— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) May 1, 2025

The crowd's energy was palpable at the sold-out Estadio Benito Villamarín, with Fiorentina struggling to cope initially. Isco threatened to double Betis' lead with a curling shot that narrowly missed the post. As the half progressed, Fiorentina began to find their footing, with Rolando Mandragora heading wide. Marc Bartra had a chance to extend Betis' lead at halftime but blasted over from 12 yards after a corner.

The introduction of Moise Kean at halftime gave Fiorentina new momentum, with Albert Gudmundsson almost making an immediate impact. Gudmundsson's promising run was halted by Fran Vieites' timely block as he bore down on goal.

Betis goalkeeper David de Gea then produced a spectacular save, leaping to his left to deny Marc Bartra's header. The match was in a lull until Antony broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance. His unstoppable drive from the edge of the box found the top corner, seemingly putting Betis in firm control of the tie.

The atmosphere remained electric at the Estadio Benito Villamarín as Betis continued to press for a second goal. Pablo Fornals had a chance to seal the win but failed to capitalize, firing a tame shot after a well-worked move initiated by Isco. His missed opportunity proved costly, as Fiorentina seized the chance to level the match. Just a minute later, Luca Ranieri scored for the visitors, firing home from a pullback by Robin Gosens. The goal sets up an intriguing second leg in Florence next week.