Thu May 08 21:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Fiorentina’s Conference League Curse Continues: Betis Advances After Extra Time Thriller
Florence, Italy – Fiorentina’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive Conference League final were dashed last night in a heartbreaking extra-time defeat against Real Betis at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. Despite a spirited comeback, fueled by goals from Gosens (who also assisted the crucial away goal in the first leg), the Viola ultimately fell short, extending their frustrating European drought to 24 years without a title.
Betis took an early deserved lead, seemingly unnerving the home side. However, Fiorentina responded with two headed goals, a rare feat for a team that ranks eighth in Serie A for headed goals. Goalkeeper David De Gea, a standout performer along with Kean, made crucial saves to keep Fiorentina in the game and force extra time. But even De Gea’s heroics couldn’t prevent another agonizing European exit for the Viola.
While Betis celebrates its advancement to the final, Fiorentina is left to lament yet another near-miss, their Conference League journey becoming a frustrating mix of obsession and disappointment.
First Piper 