Real Betis Storm Past Jagiellonia to Take Commanding Lead in Conference League Quarter-Finals

Real Betis achieved a convincing 2-0 victory in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-final against Jagiellonia Białystok, with Los Verdiblancos maintaining their impressive unbeaten streak, now at nine matches across all competitions (W7, D2).

Starting strong, Betis aimed for an early goal in front of a vibrant crowd at the Estadio Benito Villamarín, having opened the scoring in 11 of their 13 European fixtures this season. Both Jesus Rodriguez and Natan sent shots sailing over in the initial 15 minutes.

Halfway through the first half, the hosts broke the deadlock as Cedric Bakambu latched onto a through ball from Pablo Fornals, netting his fifth goal in four Conference League matches under Slawomir Abramowicz.

While Jagiellonia struggled to find their rhythm during the first 45 minutes, they showcased a glimpse of their dangerous counter-attacking style when Darko Churlinov’s effort from Dusan Stojinovic’s cross forced a save from Betis goalkeeper Fran Vieites.

Betis managed to extend their lead just before the interval, with J. Rodriguez quickly reacting to Bakambu’s deflected shot, guiding the ball in from six yards to score his first goal in European competition.

After the break, Jagiellonia believed they had clawed a goal back, but Leon Flach was deemed offside when he converted from close range.

In an exhilarating start to the second half, Betis nearly added a crucial third goal as J. Rodriguez’s low shot struck the post. Natan also rattled the woodwork later on, rising powerfully to head Isco’s corner against the post.

With Manuel Pellegrini’s side firmly in command of this first leg, Los Verdiblancos will be hopeful of advancing to their first-ever UEFA competition semi-final, provided they replicate this performance next Thursday in Białystok.

Meanwhile, Adrian Siemieniec’s Jagiellonia found it difficult to gain momentum in Seville, but they may feel more optimistic heading into the second leg, given their impressive record of seven wins in their last eight matches at the Bialystok City Stadium.