The UEFA Conference League final promises excitement, redemption, and the kind of drama only European nights can deliver.
Image credit: Fabrizio Romano
Chelsea have officially booked their place in the UEFA Conference League final after completing a convincing 5-1 aggregate victory over Swedish side Djurgårdens IF.
The Blues secured a narrow 1-0 win in the second leg at Stamford Bridge, having already done most of the damage in the first leg.
The victory marks Chelsea’s first European final since their UEFA Champions League triumph in 2021 and sets the stage for a thrilling contest against Spanish side Real Betis on May 28 in Wrocław, Poland.
While Chelsea had a comfortable path to the final, the other semifinal between Real Betis and Fiorentina was anything but straightforward.
Both teams won their respective home legs 2-1, pushing the tie into extra time.
It was there that Betis found the decisive breakthrough, with Antony — the much-criticized former Manchester United winger — turning provider for Abde Ezzalzouli’s match-winning goal.
The final now sets up an intriguing duel between two former Manchester United outcasts: Antony for Betis and Jadon Sancho for Chelsea.
Both players have endured turbulent spells at Old Trafford, but now find themselves central to their clubs’ European campaigns.
For Chelsea, the final represents more than just a shot at silverware.
Under new manager Enzo Maresca, the Blues are not only aiming to lift a European trophy but are also pushing hard for a top-five finish in the Premier League — which could guarantee Champions League football next season.
Similarly, Betis are fighting for a top-five finish in La Liga, currently sitting sixth and just a point behind Villarreal.
Betis are managed by the experienced Manuel Pellegrini, a Premier League winner with Manchester City and a manager Maresca himself has cited as a coaching influence.
Pellegrini’s tactical nous and experience in European competitions make Betis formidable opponents, even as underdogs.
