The on-loan Manchester United winger scored a half-volley to put Betis in control ahead of crucial second leg
Manchester United loanee Antony scored on Thursday to boost Real Betis’ chances of playing their first European final in nearly two decades, as the Spanish side sealed a 2-1 win over Fiorentina in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League semi-final.
Antony is still looking to reignite his career after a turbulent spell in Manchester, and the Brazilian delivered his most decisive moment in green and white so far, smashing home a half-volley from the edge of the box in the 64th minute to give Betis a two-goal cushion.
The strike is Antony’s third in the competition and came at a time when Betis were beginning to look vulnerable under pressure from Fiorentina.
Betis had taken an early lead just six minutes in when Abdessamad Ezzalzouli rifled a shot off the underside of the bar after being set up by Cedric Bakambu. At first glance, it seemed the ball hadn’t crossed the line, but a goal-line review confirmed otherwise.
Despite Betis’ early dominance, Fiorentina responded with spells of threatening possession, and were unlucky not to level before the break. In the second half, another player who has recently played for Manchester United, David de Gea, made a stunning one-handed save from Marc Bartra’s point-blank header to preserve Fiorentina’s lead.
The Italian side continued to push, but Antony’s goal extended Betis’ advantage just past the hour mark. It couldn’t have come at a better time as substitute Luca Ranieri shortly pulled one back for Italians. Betis then held on to ensure the win.
The return leg will be played in Italy, where Betis and Antony will be looking to secure their first ever European final, most likely against Premier League side Chelsea.
