Conference League Final Offers Redemption for Chelsea or Recognition for Betis
Chelsea and Real Betis have come from starkly different starting points to get to Wednesday’s UEFA Europa Conference League final.
Chelsea, twice Champions League winners and six times English top-flight champions, are seeking redemption in Europe’s third-tier competition following a sub-par domestic campaign.
Betis, on the other hand, are eagerly anticipating their first major European final after undergoing a transformation under the astute leadership of former Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini.
Energized by Brazilian winger Antony and midfield maestro Isco, Betis are going through one of the best spells in their history and have finally managed to emerge from the shadow of city rivals Sevilla, record six-time Europa League winners, to become the team of the moment in Andalusia.
For a traditional club whose passionate fans have celebrated a Spanish league title only once — 90 years ago — and who have taken part in the Champions League only once — three decades ago — reaching the Conference League final is a dream scenario.
In contrast, playing the Conference League final could feel a bit underwhelming for big-spending Chelsea, who won the Champions League four years ago.
