3️⃣ things to look out for in the Europa Conference League final | OneFootball

After Tottenham's triumph in the Europa League last week, it's now Chelsea's turn to represent the Premier League in a European final.

The Blues face Real Betis in the Europa Conference League later this evening and here are three things you need to look out for.

Antony's resurgence

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Few players have made headlines in this year’s Conference League like Antony. The Brazilian winger, once maligned for some truly woeful performances at Manchester United, has found a new lease of life under Manuel Pellegrini at Real Betis.

Arriving in Seville amid scepticism, Antony has silenced critics with a string of electrifying displays.

Pellegrini has trusted the South American with a prominent role on the right flank and Antony has responded with creativity, pace and an improved end product.

His goal and assist in the semi-final against Fiorentina highlighted just how influential he has become in Betis’s attacking setup.

A strong showing in the final could mark a defining moment in his already revitalised career.

Renewal under Enzo Maresca

Enzo Maresca has impressed in his first season at Chelsea, instilling a clear identity rooted in controlled possession and intelligent positioning. Drawing from his experience under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Maresca's Chelsea have operated a measured build-up game, whilst inviting pressure before slicing through the lines with precision.

It's got fans at Stamford Bridge in a tizz at points this term, but with just one more game of the campaign to go, it would be difficult to find a supporter in west London who says this has been a bad season.

Marc Cucurella and captain Reece James have been instrumental in creating numerical superiority in midfield, with Enzo Fernández and the imperious Cole Palmer dictated tempo.

Chelsea’s strategy will be tested against Betis’ more vertical, transitional approach. Expect a tactical chess match with Maresca's men trying to dominate the ball and dictate the rhythm.

The weight of history

📸 MANU FERNANDEZ

Beyond tactics and individuals, the stakes for both clubs are enormous. For Real Betis, it’s a dream turned reality - the chance to lift their first-ever European trophy. Club president Ángel Haro has spoken openly about transforming Betis into a club capable of competing on the continental stage and this final represents a tangible step towards that vision.

For Chelsea, victory would complete a remarkable European quartet, having already claimed the Champions League, Europa League, and the now-defunct Cup Winners' Cup. Becoming the first team to win all four major UEFA men's titles would add another prestigious chapter to the club’s modern era.

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