On Wednesday, Real Betis goes for their first European trophy when they compete against Chelsea in the final of the UEFA Conference League. It will be a very heavy test for Los Verdiblancos, but there is belief that they can cause upset.
And it is not only in Andalusia where this feeling exists – it is also one of those associated with the opposition of Betis' Premier League. Speaking with Football España in collaboration with Newbettingsites.uk, former Chelsea player Pat Nevin gave his opinion about the final of the UEFA Conference League on Wednesday.
“Everything that has happened so far in the Conference League means absolutely nothing. This is not a competition that a team like Chelsea, which has spent so much money, should have worried to reach the final. Many teams were not their class – which is not a count, it simply emphasizes financial inequality.
“But forget that now, because they have to be confronted against betis. They are a very decent side, and many of their players are who will know those people in England. And some of them are seen as” rejections ” – absolute nonsense. You defeat Real Madrid and also get two treks against Barcelona, unless you are a very good team.
Nevin also emphasized that the possible match-ups between Betis and Chelsea players could be decided by the game. He believes that his former club can use a certain player to destroy Isco, who spoke to the Premier League side during the media programs, while also discussing the early related collision between Antony and Marc Cucurella.
“The match-ups during the final will be enormously important. Isco is fantastic, and his creativity will be an enormous concern for Chelsea. But say that if Moises Caicedo were played in midfield instead of the right, it would be a nightmare for betis. He is an exceptional player but that is not much a defender.
“Marc Cucurella is brilliant, and he is so difficult to play against. He runs all the time and he drags his opponent everywhere. It will be fascinating to see him against Antony, who must help Defense not to deepen that threat.”
Nevin believes that Betis has a big chance to win their first European trophy, because he believes that the experience in the team of Manuel Pellegrini will go a long way.
“The big advantage of Betis for this match is that their players know that they will become legends if they win. Chelsea will not have the same feeling, since they have had good success in recent years. They will have the final, but I don't know if they have the same ultra-passion that wants Betis.
“And another possible advantage for Betis is the experience. Chelsea won the Champions League in 2021, but they only have one player who played in that final – Reece James, and he can't even start. So many people have told me that Chelsea will certainly win, but for me this is one of the most difficult tournament finals they have had.
“I think the final will go to punishments, and because it will be a lottery afterwards, I see that Betis is most likely to win because they are more experienced.”