Real Betis vs Chelsea Conference League Final Preview

• Chelsea to win the trophy
• Both teams to score

The 2024/25 UEFA Europa Conference League final sees a fascinating clash between two clubs with very different histories on the European stage. Real Betis are appearing in their first-ever major continental final, while Chelsea are gunning for their sixth UEFA trophy, one that would make them the first club in history to win all five major UEFA competitions: the Champions League, Europa League, Cup Winners’ Cup, Super Cup, and now potentially, the Conference League.

For Betis, the incentive is primarily about legacy and silverware. A top-six finish in La Liga has already guaranteed them UEFA Europa League football next season, so the usual prize for winning this competition has already been secured through domestic means. The final itself, then, is more about writing history – not just for the club, but also for Spanish football, as Betis seek to become the fourth different La Liga side to lift this trophy in its various formats over the years.

However, their recent form leaves plenty to be desired. A 1-1 draw against Valencia on the final day of the La Liga season extended Betis’ winless streak in all competitions to five matches (D4, L1). Although they’ve been difficult to beat, the inability to turn draws into wins has slightly dampened morale ahead of this decisive clash. What will encourage them though is their Conference League record this term, having tasted defeat just once in ten matches (W6, D3, L1).

That European run has seen them progress past some tough opposition, and while they’ve not always dazzled, they’ve been disciplined, well-organised, and timely with their goals. They’ll need all those qualities and more when they take on Chelsea, particularly given Betis’ dismal all-time record against English clubs in Europe (W1, D1, L6). Perhaps more worrying is that they’ve never scored more than once in any of those matches – a stat they’ll be hoping to finally rewrite in Wrocław.

Chelsea’s Chance at History

On the other side stands a Chelsea team seasoned in the demands and pressure of European finals. The Blues have a 100% record in European finals over the last 12 years, winning four on the bounce since losing to Atlético Madrid in the 2012 UEFA Super Cup. This will be their first ever appearance in the UEFA Conference League final, and a victory would add another unique honour to their already decorated continental resume.

Chelsea travel to Poland on the back of a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League, a result that secured their return to the UEFA Champions League next season. That achievement completed a remarkable end-of-season turnaround under Enzo Maresca, who can now crown his debut campaign with a major European trophy.

A potential concern is the shorter recovery time, having played on Sunday while Betis concluded their domestic season on Friday. But Chelsea’s recent run of six wins from their last seven matches in all competitions (L1) has bred momentum and belief. Their form in the Conference League has also been dominant, winning 11 of their 12 main-draw matches (L1) and dispatching sides with clinical efficiency throughout the knockout rounds.

Historically, there is a potential psychological barrier. English clubs have lost each of the last nine UEFA finals against Spanish opposition, a trend Chelsea will be desperate to break. The Blues, however, have rarely been influenced by past narratives – and given their firepower, European pedigree, and recent form, they will enter this final as slight favourites.

Key Players to Watch

Antony has emerged as one of Betis’ key figures in their Conference League journey. On loan from Manchester United, he has revelled in continental competition, contributing to seven goals in eight Conference League appearances (G4, A3).

Three of his goals have come after the break, underlining his ability to influence matches in crucial moments. His familiarity with Chelsea from his Premier League days could also prove beneficial for Los Verdiblancos.

For Chelsea, Nicolas Jackson returns from suspension and is expected to lead the line. The striker has developed a reputation for stepping up in big moments, with each of his last seven goals coming in games Chelsea went on to win.

That includes a goal in the semi-final victory over Djurgården, and his energy, pace and movement could be crucial in breaking down a well-organised Betis defence.

Hot Stat

Real Betis have opened the scoring in 12 of their last 13 Conference League fixtures. Striking first could be critical to their hopes of an upset, particularly against a Chelsea side that thrives when ahead.

Prediction

This final pits Betis’ resilience and desire to make history against Chelsea’s European experience and momentum. The Spanish side will need to be near-perfect to pull off the win, particularly considering their record against English clubs and their recent form. Chelsea, on the other hand, appear peaking at just the right time and have the depth and tactical maturity to handle the occasion.

Prediction: Real Betis 1-2 Chelsea (AET)

Expect a closely fought contest, possibly decided in extra time, with Chelsea’s cutting edge proving decisive in the end.

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Real Betis vs Chelsea | UEFA Conference League 2024/25 Final