Powerful Antony volley headlines action-packed Conference League semi-final | OneFootball

The UEFA Conference League has brought a mixed bag of opinions from fans. While some argue that the competition is unnecessary, the fans of Real Betis certainly have a different opinion. The Villamarin Stadium was packed to its maximum capacity of 60,721 fans, and included an impressive pre match display. While the other semi-final was more lopsided and boring, this matchup proved to be a fiery contest between two competitive and hungry sides.

Real Betis fans with an impressive pre match display - UEFA Conference League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg | Denis Doyle/GettyImages

With such a raucous atmosphere behind them, it should come as no surprise that Real Betis got off to a quick start. A long ball into the right channel from Aitor Ruibal seemed to be under control by Fiorentina defender Pietro Comuzzo, but he was pushed off the ball by Cédric Bakambu. The forward then drove to the byline, and found a pass to Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, who (with some luck from the crossbar) fired the home side into the lead.

Abde Ezzalzouli celebrating his opening goal - UEFA Conference League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg | Denis Doyle/GettyImages

The rest of the half would be a cagey affair. Neither side would register another shot on target until after the halftime interval. Fiorentina’s 3-5-2 became more of a 5-3-2 as both sides were cautious to throw another blow.

Another goal would come for the home side, and it would come from the man in form, Antony. After a poor stint at Manchester United, the Brazilian has really found his form in Spain. Since joining Betis in January, he has five goal contributions in the Conference League. In yesterday's matchup, he yet again impressed his new home fans. The right-winger drove inside onto his left foot, had a shot deflected, and then fired home a goal of the season contender with his weaker foot.

While that goal likely had the Italians rattled, they made sure not to go home without something to hold on to. Rolando Mandragora dropped into the defensive line, and found Robin Gosens with a beautiful ball over the top. The German trapped the ball at his feet, and played a sharp cut back for captain Luca Ranieri. Despite being a defender, the Italian fired home an important goal, keeping Fiorentina in the game.

Luca Ranieri after scoring his crucial goal - UEFA Conference League 2024/25 Semi Final First Leg | Denis Doyle/GettyImages

The result was probably fair to both sides. Real Betis finished with 1.91 xG, while Fiorentina accumulated 1.05. Both squads will like their chances going into next week's second leg in Florence. Kick off is Thursday, May 8th at 9:00 P.M.