Conference League 2024/25 Final: Chelsea’s Stunning Comeback Seals Historic UEFA Conference League Triumph Over Real Betis

In a thrilling showdown at Wrocław, Chelsea completed a remarkable comeback to secure a 4-1 victory against Real Betis in the 2025 UEFA Conference League final. After falling behind early, the Blues overturned the deficit with four second-half goals, clinching their first Conference League title and becoming the first club to win all five of UEFA’s men’s club competitions.

This victory not only cements Chelsea’s place in European football history but also ends a long-standing dominance of Spanish teams in finals against English opposition.

Early Setback for Chelsea as Betis Takes the Lead

Real Betis wasted no time imposing their aggressive game plan, pressing high to disrupt Chelsea’s rhythm. The early intensity paid dividends in the ninth minute when Isco’s precise pass found Abdessamad Ezzalzouli, who calmly finished low past Filip Jørgensen.

Betis continued to test Chelsea’s defense, with notable attempts from Marc Bartra and Johnny Cardoso, while Benoît Badiashile’s crucial block prevented further damage. Despite Chelsea holding 65% possession by halftime, Betis’ relentless defending kept the visitors at bay, frustrating their attempts to create clear-cut chances.

Tactical Shift Sparks Chelsea’s Resurgence

The turning point came after the interval when Chelsea captain Reece James entered the fray, bringing fresh energy and leadership. Meanwhile, a limping Ezzalzouli was withdrawn, weakening Betis’ left flank. Chelsea’s dominance grew, and the previously disciplined Betis players found themselves pressed aggressively, reminiscent of a side unaccustomed to keeping clean sheets in recent games.

Reece James immediately impacted the match, unleashing a powerful shot that forced a scramble in the Betis defense. Moments later, Cole Palmer’s exquisite lofted pass enabled Enzo Fernández to head the equalizer into an exposed net. Chelsea’s momentum continued, with Palmer again creating magic by delivering a pinpoint cross for Nicolas Jackson to score at the near post, turning the contest decisively in their favor.

Chelsea Overwhelms Betis Amid Roaring Crowd

Despite the vibrant support from the passionate Betis fans, the home team struggled to regain composure. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, another substitute, assisted Jadon Sancho, who expertly curled in a third goal, sealing Betis’ fate. Adding to the heartbreak, Moises Caicedo capped the night with a cool, low strike in stoppage time, pushing the scoreline to 4-1.

Betis’ promising first-half performance, driven by the impressive Isco, unraveled in the second half as Chelsea’s strategic changes and relentless pressure proved decisive. The loss of key players Ricardo Rodríguez and Ezzalzouli was a significant blow, especially compared to Chelsea’s impactful substitutions.

A Historic Achievement for Chelsea

This victory marks an extraordinary milestone: Chelsea is now the first club to win all five major UEFA men’s club competitions. Their haul includes two UEFA Champions League titles, two UEFA Europa League trophies, two UEFA Super Cups, two UEFA Cup Winners’ Cups, and now their inaugural Conference League success.

Chelsea’s triumph also ends a remarkable streak of nine consecutive wins by Spanish clubs in UEFA finals against English teams since 2001/02. Before this match, Spanish sides had maintained a flawless record, winning all 23 Champions League, Europa League, or Conference League finals they contested during this period.

Continued Excellence in European Competitions

Chelsea’s recent record in major finals is outstanding, having won six of their last seven appearances across the Champions League, Europa League, and Cup Winners’ Cup — the only exception being a penalty shootout loss to Manchester United in the 2007/08 Champions League final. Their dominance in the Conference League has been especially impressive, with this season’s 11 wins out of 12 matches (from the group stage onward) illustrating their consistency.

Moreover, Chelsea’s tally of 42 goals throughout this Conference League campaign shattered the competition’s previous record of 37, set by Fiorentina last season, underscoring their attacking prowess.

Real Betis’ First Major UEFA Final Ends in Heartbreak

For Real Betis, the match represented their debut in a major UEFA final — a remarkable achievement for the Spanish outfit. Despite the loss, their spirited display in the first half and throughout the tournament was commendable. Notably, Pablo Fornals, who featured in this final, was part of the victorious West Ham squad in the 2022/23 Conference League season, providing some consolation.

Though their promising run ended in disappointment, Betis’ journey remains a proud chapter, highlighting the club’s growth on the European stage.

Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca faced tactical challenges early on but expertly adapted by introducing Reece James, whose influential performance helped turn the game. “The apprentice has overcome the master,” the sentiment capturing Chelsea’s tactical ingenuity and youthful talent flourishing on the grandest stage.

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