
- Fixture: Fiorentina vs Real Betis (UEFA Europa Conference League Semi-final, Second Leg)
- Date: Thursday, 8 May 2025
- Venue: Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence
Match Preview
Fiorentina host Real Betis in the decisive second leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League semi-final, with the Spanish side holding a slender 2-1 advantage from the first encounter in Seville. The Stadio Artemio Franchi will be buzzing as Fiorentina look to overturn the deficit and reach a third consecutive Conference League final, while Betis aim to cap their historic run with a maiden appearance in a European showpiece.
The first leg was a lively affair. Real Betis struck early through Abde Ezzalzouli, and after a tense, end-to-end contest, Antony’s stunning long-range strike doubled their lead. Fiorentina, however, kept their hopes alive when captain Luca Ranieri slid home a crucial away goal, setting up a tantalizing return in Florence. Both teams created chances, with Betis’ transitions and Isco’s creativity standing out, but Fiorentina’s resilience and attacking adjustments in the second half showed why they are so dangerous in knockout football.
Recent form for both sides is impressive. Fiorentina were beaten by Roma in Serie A last weekend, halting a recent run of form that saw them go nine matches in ten unbeaten across all competitions. This included back-to-back Serie A wins over Cagliari and Empoli before the first leg. They have scored in every away game in this season’s Conference League. Real Betis, meanwhile, are on a remarkable run, with just one loss in their last 13 games, including victories over Espanyol, Real Valladolid, and a hard-fought win over Fiorentina last week. Their attack has been prolific, and their confidence is high after climbing to sixth in La Liga.
Team news could play a decisive role. Fiorentina suffered a blow in the first leg when midfielder Danilo Cataldi pulled up with a thigh injury and is expected to miss the return match, joining Dodo (appendicitis) on the sidelines. For Betis, midfielders Marc Roca and Giovani Lo Celso remain out with injuries, reducing Pellegrini’s options in the center of the park. Both managers will need to balance aggression and caution, knowing that a single goal could swing the tie.
Key Players
- Fiorentina: Lucas Beltran (top scorer), Rolando Mandragora (in fine Conference League form), and captain Luca Ranieri, whose leadership and goal in the first leg were vital.
- Real Betis: Isco (creative hub and leading scorer), Antony (match-winner in the first leg), and Cédric Bakambu (key in attack and assists).
Prediction
This tie is finely poised. Fiorentina’s attacking prowess at home and their experience in European semi-finals give them a real chance to turn things around, but Betis’ away form and clinical counter-attacks make them dangerous. Expect a tense, open game with both teams likely to score. A 2-1 win for Fiorentina in 90 minutes would force extra time, but Betis’ away goal threat could see them edge through. Predicted score: Fiorentina 2-1 Betis (after 90 minutes; extra time possible).
Betting Markets & Odds
Market | Odds | Bet Now |
---|---|---|
Fiorentina to Win | 13/8 | Bet Now |
Draw (90 mins) | 12/5 | Bet Now |
Real Betis to Win | 15/8 | Bet Now |
Both Teams to Score | 8/13 | Bet Now |
Over 2.5 Goals | 11/10 | Bet Now |
Correct Score: Fiorentina 2-1 | 17/2 | Bet Now |
Real Betis to Qualify | 4/7 | Bet Now |
Fiorentina to Qualify | 6/4 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and may vary; check the link for the latest prices.
This semi-final promises high drama and attacking football-don’t miss it!