Sevilla's Real Betis and London's Chelsea are set to write a new chapter in European football history as they meet in the Conference League final in Wroclaw today. For Betis, this marks their first-ever European final appearance, while Chelsea aims to make history by becoming the first club to win all five major UEFA competitions.
The Spanish side's journey to Wroclaw culminated in a dramatic semi-final against Fiorentina, where a late equalizer from Anthony secured their qualification. Under Manuel Pellegrini's experienced guidance, the revitalized performances of players like Isco and Anthony have symbolized Betis' balanced yet attacking football philosophy. Despite finishing sixth in La Liga and experiencing a winless run in their last four league matches, the Andalusian club has clearly prioritized this European campaign.
Pellegrini's three-year project could reach its pinnacle with victory tonight, potentially continuing an extraordinary Spanish tradition—since 2001, Spanish clubs have won 23 out of 24 European finals against non-Spanish opponents.
According to analysis from Statbet, this represents one of the most significant mismatches in European finals this decade based on domestic league positions and historical European success rates.
Chelsea enters their 13th European final with an impressive record of eight triumphs from their previous twelve appearances. Enzo Maresca's team secured Champions League qualification by finishing fourth in the Premier League on the final day, adding extra motivation to cap off their transitional season with silverware.
The London club's path to the final has been remarkably smooth, with a comfortable victory over Djurgarden in the semi-finals. Their attacking trio of Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Jadon Sancho has provided the cutting edge needed at this level.
This final carries additional intrigue as Maresca faces his former mentor Pellegrini. The clubs' only previous meetings came in the 2005/06 Champions League group stage, where each team won their home fixture. Tonight's stakes are considerably higher as these two tactical minds battle for European glory in Poland.
