Fiorentina Faces Must-Win Match Against Real Betis in Conference League

SEVILLE, Spain – May 8, 2025 – ACF Fiorentina needs a win tonight at the Stadio Artemio Franchi against Real Betis to advance in the UEFA Conference League. The match is set to begin at 20:00 UK time (19:00 GMT, 21:00 CET), and Fiorentina is looking to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first leg where they were unable to capitalize on their possession.

In a thrilling first leg on May 1, Real Betis secured a narrow win thanks to a goal from Cedric Bakambu, and a late strike from Luca Ranieri for Fiorentina kept the tie alive. Manager Raffaele Palladino has made key changes for the return match, bringing back Moise Kean and Dodo after their absence due to injuries.

Kean’s return is particularly crucial after he averaged 1.58 shots on target per 90 minutes before his injury. Yacine Adli is filling in for injured midfielder Danilo Cataldi, while Albert Gudmundsson joins the attack alongside Kean. The team is in solid form, having remained unbeaten in nine matches leading up to this clash.

Fiorentina’s chances are complicated by limited fan attendance due to ongoing reconstruction at their stadium, which could impact their home advantage. In contrast, Real Betis comes into the match confident, following an impressive campaign in La Liga that has positioned them for Champions League qualification next season.

Real Betis’ manager, Manuel Pellegrini, has a strong squad, including former Napoli defender Natan and attacking threats like Antony, Isco, and Giovani Lo Celso, who can exploit defensive gaps. They are determined to reach the final of the Conference League, marking the first semi-final appearance in their history.

As the match approaches, both teams understand the implications of this high-stakes encounter. Fiorentina must turn their possession into goals, while Real Betis will look to capitalize on any counter-attacking opportunities. The match promises to be a thrilling showdown with a place in the final on the line.