Real Betis claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fiorentina in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League semi-final, but Luca Ranieri’s late goal has kept Fiorentina’s hopes alive as they head into the return leg in Florence. The match, held at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, was a dramatic affair, with plenty of action, missed opportunities, and a late twist that gives the Viola hope for a comeback.
Real Betis vs Fiorentina: Match Recap and Key Moments
The match started brightly for Real Betis as they took the lead early in the first half. Abde Ezzalzouli opened the scoring in the 14th minute, finishing emphatically off the underside of the bar after Cedric Bakambu had muscled his way down the right wing and pulled back a precise cross. This early goal set the tone for Betis, who looked to build on their advantage.
Fiorentina, however, began to grow into the game, creating several chances. Rolando Mandragora nearly equalized when he nodded a Robin Gosens cross just wide. Danilo Cataldi was forced off with a muscular injury, and he was replaced by Yacine Adli before halftime. As the first half came to a close, Betis had another great chance to extend their lead when Marc Bartra fired over after a defensive mix-up during a corner.
The second half saw Fiorentina introduce Moise Kean in a bid to add more attacking threat. However, it was Real Betis who doubled their lead in the 60th minute. Antony’s shot was blocked by Luca Ranieri, but the rebound fell kindly for the winger, who smashed a half-volley into the roof of the net to make it 2-0.
Betis could have extended their lead further, with Pablo Fornals testing David De Gea shortly after, but the Spanish goalkeeper kept his team in the game with a solid save.
Fiorentina didn’t give up, and they pulled a goal back late in the match. Gosens controlled a ball over the top and cut it back for Ranieri, who fired home from 12 yards to make it 2-1. Fiorentina nearly found an equalizer, with Gosens’ glancing header grazing the far post. Bartra also had another header go just wide.
The match ended with some controversy, as Michael Folorunsho’s dangerous tackle on Giovanni Lo Celso went unpunished, with VAR allowing play to continue. Despite these moments of drama, Betis emerged victorious with a narrow 2-1 lead.
Real Betis vs Fiorentina: The Road to the Return Leg
While Real Betis has the advantage going into the second leg, Fiorentina will still be confident of overturning the deficit at their home ground, the Stadio Artemio Franchi, on May 8. The Viola have been strong in this competition, reaching the final in the past two seasons, and they will be determined to make it three in a row. However, they will need to find a way to break down a resilient Real Betis side that will be buoyed by their performance in the first leg.
Key Players to Watch:
- Abde Ezzalzouli (Real Betis) – The winger was crucial in Betis’ first goal and will be key to their attacking play in the second leg.
- David De Gea (Fiorentina) – The Spanish goalkeeper made vital saves to keep Fiorentina in the match and will need to be at his best in the return leg.
- Luca Ranieri (Fiorentina) – Ranieri’s late goal has given Fiorentina hope, and the defender will be a key figure in both defense and attack.
Predictions:
With both teams showing strong attacking play and resilience, the second leg promises to be another thrilling encounter. Real Betis will be cautious, knowing that Fiorentina can still mount a comeback, while the Viola will be eager to make full use of their home advantage. Expect a hard-fought battle, with both teams playing with intensity to secure a spot in the final.
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What’s Next?
The second leg on May 8 will be crucial for both teams. With a spot in the final on the line, expect intense action as Fiorentina seeks to overcome the deficit at home, while Real Betis aims to finish the job and secure their place in the final.
