By Yusuf Mohammed
There’s a saying: misery loves company, and Arsenal fans were living proof of it ahead of the UEFA Europa Conference League final between Chelsea and Real Betis. With Arsenal still waiting to lift a European trophy, many of their supporters were hoping Chelsea would fall short of completing their continental collection. The thought of their London rivals becoming the first club to win all major UEFA competitions was too much to bear.
Those hopes briefly flickered into life when Real Betis struck early in the first half, sending viewing centres around the world into a frenzy of anti-Chelsea celebration. But it was short-lived.
In a stunning display of resilience, Chelsea roared back to claim a commanding 4–1 victory, capping off Enzo Maresca’s debut season in style and etching their name in the record books. The Blues had already conquered the Champions League and Europa League in previous years, now, with the Conference League added to their trophy cabinet, they stand alone in European football history.
Enzo Fernández was pivotal in the turnaround, equalizing and dictating play from midfield with a composed performance that highlighted his growing influence at Stamford Bridge. Cole Palmer, a standout all season, set up two crucial goals, his second a pinpoint cross that Nicolas Jackson converted to put Chelsea ahead.
As Betis pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Jadon Sancho curled in a clinical finish, effectively sealing the win. Moises Caicedo added a fourth in stoppage time, putting the result beyond doubt and triggering euphoric celebrations among Chelsea fans.
For Arsenal supporters, it was a bitter night. For Chelsea, it was a crowning moment, one that confirmed their place in history and signaled a bold new era under Maresca.
