The Europa match League final between Real Betis and Chelsea shows a compelling clash of footballing philosophies and aspirations. Chelsea, having secured a Champions League spot for the next season, aims to solidify its legacy by potentially becoming the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions . In contrast, Real Betis is entering its inaugural European final under the guidance of Manuel Pellegrini, offering a narrative rich in ambition and determination .
After guaranteeing themselves a place in next season’s Champions League, the Blues can cap off an impressive campaign under Enzo Maresca by completing the set in terms of European trophies.
two time winner of the Champions League and Europa League, the Conference League - a competition which was only introduced in 2021 - is the only missing piece from the west London outfit’s European collection.
Chelsea haven’t faced the sternest opposition in the knockout stages of the Conference League, conquering Copenhagen, Legia Warsaw and Djurgården thus far. Betis will prove their toughest test after narrowly defeating Fiorentina—runners-up during the last two seasons—in the semifinal.
Betis have already secured their place in next term’s Europa League after finishing sixth in La Liga but are looking for their first piece of European silverware in their first continental final in Wrocław. The Seville side last won a major trophy when they clinched the Copa del Rey in 2021–22 but will need to upset the odds to make history.
Real Betis possible starting lineup: Vieites; Sabaly, Bartra, Natan, R. Rodriguez; Cardoso, Altimira; Antony, Isco, Fornals; Bakambu
Chelsea possible starting lineup: Jorgensen; Gusto, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella; Dewsbury-Hall, Fernandez; Sancho, Nkunku, George; Jackson
Former Real Madrid playmaker Isco has enjoyed a fine season, scoring nine goals and providing eight assists in just 1,552 minutes of league action in Spain.
And Manchester United loanee Antony, who scored in both legs of the semi-final, is another resurgent attacking player who could threaten Chelsea's defence.
But Betis have kept only one clean sheet in their last 15 games – at home to Jagiellonia Bialystok in the quarter-final first leg – but they may struggle to keep Chelsea quiet.
Nicolas Jackson was suspended for the Blues' Premier League run-in but the refreshed striker is worth backing to open the scoring against Betis.
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