Chelsea and Cole Palmer storm back at Real Betis to win Conference League
In a landmark achievement for European football, Chelsea FC secured a resounding 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final held at Wrocław Stadium, Poland, on May 28, 2025. This triumph not only added another trophy illustrious cabinet but also etched their name in history as the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions: the Champions League, Europa League, Cup Winners’ Cup, and the Conference League.
A Tale of Two Halves
The match began with Real Betis displaying early dominance, capitalizing on Chelsea’s tentative start. In the 9th minute, Abde Ezzalzouli found the net, giving Betis an unexpected lead and igniting hopes of a historic upset. Betis continued to press, with Isco orchestrating plays from the midfield, showcasing the experience that had previously earned him five Champions League titles with Real Madrid. Chelsea, despite enjoying more possession, struggled to penetrate Betis’s organized defense, leading to a 1-0 deficit at halftime.
Tactical Mastery and Player Impact
Recognizing the need for change, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca introduced captain Reece James at the start of the second half, replacing the underperforming Malo Gusto. This substitution proved pivotal, as Chelsea began to assert control and increase their attacking threat. The turning point came in the 65th minute when Cole Palmer delivered a precise cross, allowing Enzo Fernández to equalize with a well-placed header. Just five minutes later, Palmer again showcased his playmaking abilities, setting up Nicolas Jackson to put Chelsea ahead.
As Betis attempted to regroup, Chelsea’s momentum proved unstoppable. Substitute Jadon Sancho extended the lead in the 83rd minute, finishing from a tight angle after a clever interplay with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. Moises Caicedo added the final touch, scoring in the closing moments to seal a comprehensive 4-1 victory. Palmer’s contributions earned him the Man of the Match award, marking a standout performance in his burgeoning career.
Significance of the Victory
This win marked Chelsea’s first silverware since the club’s acquisition by Todd Boehly’s consortium in 2022, signaling a successful new era. More importantly, it completed Chelsea’s collection of major European trophies, a feat unmatched by any other club. The victory also ended a longstanding trend of Spanish dominance in European finals, with Chelsea becoming the first non-Spanish team to defeat a Spanish club in a European final since 2001.
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Real Betis’s Historic Run
Despite the loss, Real Betis’s journey to the final was commendable. Under the guidance of manager Manuel Pellegrini, Betis reached their first-ever European final, showcasing resilience and tactical acumen throughout the tournament. Their semifinal victory over Fiorentina, secured by Ezzalzouli’s extra-time goal, exemplified their fighting spirit. Captain Isco acknowledged the team’s second-half shortcomings but emphasized the pride in their historic achievement and the unwavering support from their fans.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea’s triumph not only adds to their storied history but also sets a precedent for excellence in European competitions. The team’s depth, tactical flexibility, and emerging talents like Cole Palmer position them as formidable contenders in future tournaments. For Real Betis, the experience gained from this European campaign lays a solid foundation for continued growth and success in both domestic and international arenas.