Conference League Semifinals: Chelsea Dominates and Betis Edges Fiorentina
The opening matches of the UEFA Conference League semifinals concluded on Thursday, setting the stage for thrilling returns next week. Chelsea demonstrated commanding form with a convincing 4-1 away victory over Yurgarden, while Real Betis secured a crucial 2-1 home win against Fiorentina.
Chelsea Defeats Yurgarden 4-1
The match at Yurgarden began evenly, but Chelsea took control early. In the 13th minute, Jadon Sancho opened the scoring after receiving a precise pass from Enzo Fernandez. Chelsea built on this momentum, and just before halftime, Fernandez assisted Noni Madueke to double the lead with a well-executed play.
In the second half, Chelsea made four substitutions, but the momentum remained unchanged. Nico Jackson joined the scoring party in the 59th minute after a measured assist from Cole Palmer. Jackson fought to keep the ball in play and scored with a close-range effort. Just seven minutes later, Jackson completed his brace. Despite a late goal from Isak Almaihou Mologeta, the result was a comfortable 4-1 for Chelsea, placing them firmly in control as they head into the second leg.
Real Betis Triumphs Over Fiorentina 2-1
In a closely contested match at Estadio Benito Villamarín, Real Betis struck first in the sixth minute. A clever play by Cambu saw him outmaneuver his defender and deliver a pinpoint cross to Abda Azlazuli, who hit the crossbar, but VAR confirmed that the ball crossed the line for the opening goal.
After a tense period, Anthony calmed the home crowd with a stunning strike that found the net, putting Betis ahead by two goals. Fiorentina’s Luka Ranieri managed to reduce the deficit in the 73rd minute, but it was not enough to change the outcome, as Betis held on for a narrow victory.
Despite the loss, Fiorentina remains in contention for the return leg in Florence next week, needing to secure a strong performance to turn the tie in their favor with the support of their home crowd.
Looking Ahead
With Chelsea poised for advancement and Betis holding a slender lead, the upcoming second legs promise to be intensely competitive. Both Yurgarden and Fiorentina will need to regroup and come back strong to keep their hopes alive for a place in the final of the Conference League