Antony Shines with Goal and Assist as Betis Dazzles Against Vitoria to Keep Hopes Alive

Real Betis put on a spectacular away display, securing a 4-0 victory in the second leg of their UEFA Conference League last-16 match against Vitoria Guimaraes. This win marks their first advance to the European quarter-finals since the 1997/98 season.

The atmosphere was electric at the kick-off, with Vitoria’s supporters creating a volcanic roar in hopes of inspiring their team during this pivotal European showdown.

However, the home fans were soon left in shocked silence as Cedric Bakambu expertly slipped the ball through Bruno Varela’s legs after evading a challenge from Toni Borevkovic.

Despite the early opener, Betis’ position was far from secure, especially considering they had surrendered leads twice during last week’s 2-2 draw in Spain.

With that in mind, the travelling supporters were relieved when Bakambu struck again in the 20th minute, heading in from Aitor Ruibal’s perfect assist to complete a smooth offensive play.

Down by two goals at half-time, Vitoria came out fighting after the break, pressuring Betis during a tense period at the Estadio D. Afonso Henriques.

Just as the home side began to gather momentum, Betis launched a swift counter-attack that sealed the tie, with Antony scoring his fourth goal since joining the club in January.

The Manchester United loanee seized on Isco’s clever through ball, driving into the box to finish low past Varela at the near post.

Antony then further embellished a remarkable away performance by breaking free from Mikel Villanueva and laying the ball off for Isco, who made no mistake with a simple finish, compounding Vitoria’s woes in their first home defeat since September.

Meanwhile, Manuel Pellegrini’s side will prepare for a quarter-final encounter with Polish team Jagiellonia Bialystok.