Chelsea Overpower Real Betis to Win UEFA Conference League Final in Wrocław

Chelsea completed a historic sweep of European trophies with a dramatic 4-1 comeback victory over Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final on May 28, 2025, at the Municipal Stadium in Wrocław, Poland. The London club, under manager Enzo Maresca, added the Conference League to their Champions League, Europa League, and Cup Winners’ Cup titles, becoming the first team to win all four major UEFA men’s club competitions.

First Half: Betis Strike Early

The match began with high intensity as Real Betis, playing in their first-ever European final, pressed Chelsea aggressively. Their efforts paid off in the ninth minute when Isco delivered a clever pass to Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, who slotted a low shot past Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jørgensen to give Betis a deserved early lead. Betis continued to threaten, with Marc Bartra and Johnny Cardoso coming close to doubling the advantage, while Chelsea struggled to create clear chances despite dominating possession (65% at halftime).

Second Half: Chelsea’s Ruthless Response

The turning point came after halftime, when Chelsea captain Reece James was introduced. The Blues shifted gears and began to dominate proceedings, capitalizing on Betis’ defensive frailties. Cole Palmer, named Player of the Match, orchestrated Chelsea’s comeback with two brilliant assists:

• 65th minute: Palmer lofted a precise ball into the box for Enzo Fernández, who headed home the equalizer.
• 70th minute: Palmer turned his marker and crossed for Nicolas Jackson, who bundled the ball in at the near post to put Chelsea ahead.

Betis, missing key players like Héctor Bellerín and Marc Roca, struggled to respond. Chelsea’s substitutes made an immediate impact, with Jadon Sancho calmly curling in the third goal after a pass from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. In stoppage time, Moisés Caicedo sealed the victory with a low shot from the edge of the box, making it 4-1.

Historic Night for Chelsea

Chelsea’s triumph ended a remarkable run of nine consecutive victories for Spanish clubs in European finals against English opposition, stretching back to 2001/02. It also marked the club’s seventh major European trophy and their first silverware under the Clearlake-Boehly ownership era.

Betis’ Brave Campaign Ends in Heartbreak

Despite the defeat, Betis’ journey to the final was historic. The Spanish side, led by standout performer Antony (nine goals, five assists in the campaign), had eliminated Fiorentina in the semifinals and overcome tough opponents throughout the tournament. Their passionate fans filled the stadium with a wall of green, but the second-half collapse left them still searching for a first European trophy in their 117-year history.

Match Facts

• Venue: Municipal Stadium, Wrocław, Poland (Tarczynski Arena)
• Attendance: Over 40,000
• Scorers: Ezzalzouli (Betis, 9’), Fernández (Chelsea, 65’), Jackson (Chelsea, 70’), Sancho (Chelsea, 80’), Caicedo (Chelsea, 90+’)
• Player of the Match: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)

Quotes

“It’s a huge moment for Chelsea, both in terms of the history they’ve made and their development as an exciting crop of young talented players.” — UEFA.com match report

Chelsea’s victory was broadcast live worldwide, with fans following every moment as the Blues lifted the Conference League trophy and etched their name into European football history.