Fiorentina’s dream of reaching a third straight UEFA Europa Conference League final remains alive but precariously balanced after a 2-1 defeat to Real Betis in the first leg of their semi-final clash. Having also suffered a domestic setback in Serie A over the weekend, La Viola’s hopes of European football next season may now hinge entirely on lifting this trophy for the first time.
Historically, the odds appear mixed for the Italians. While their overall record against Spanish opposition is a concerning two wins from 15 matches (W2, D4, L9), both of those victories came on home soil. Encouragingly, Fiorentina have been perfect in two-legged Conference League ties—12 from 12—including their last-16 comeback win against Panathinaikos, where they overturned a first-leg deficit with a 3-1 home triumph.
Momentum may also come from an attacking trend: six of their last Conference League games have seen both teams score, a stat that will give fans hope of another high-octane clash at the Artemio Franchi.
For Real Betis, the story is one of historic progress. This is already the club’s deepest run in European competition, and with six unbeaten games against Italian teams under their belt (W4, D2), the Andalusian side will feel confident about their chances of reaching a first-ever European final. Their current form in the Conference League is strong, with just one loss in their last nine matches (W6, D2, L1), and they’ve converted six of their last eight European ties after winning the first leg at home.
The danger signs for Fiorentina will be clear from the start—Betis have scored first in 11 of their last 12 Conference League outings, often setting the tone early and controlling proceedings.
Players to Watch:
Rolando Mandragora continues to shine in Europe for Fiorentina, with five of his eight goals this season coming in this competition. Notably, seven of those goals were the first or second of the game, marking him as a potential tone-setter. For Betis, Cédric Bakambu is chasing the golden boot with seven goals in his last eight appearances—he remains their most potent threat.
Hot Stat:
Fiorentina have a strong precedent for comebacks, having advanced in four of their last six European ties after losing the first leg away by just a single goal.
