Real Betis has advanced to the semifinals of a European competition for the first time in its history after securing a 1-1 draw against Jagiellonia in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League quarterfinals. 

The match took place on Maundy Thursday at the Chorten Arena in Bialystok. 

Pellegrini’s men successfully managed the two-goal cushion they had earned the previous week at the Benito Villamarín — which briefly extended to three after Bakambu opened the scoring in the 78th minute. 

Just two minutes later, Churlinov equalized for the home side, preserving Jagiellonia’s unbeaten home record in the competition.

Betis will face Fiorentina in the semifinals on May 1st and 8th, with the first leg to be played at the Benito Villamarín.

Despite the thunderous reception prepared by the Polish fans, the Betis players remained composed, unfazed by the passionate chants echoing from the stands. 

The Andalusians asserted their dominance early on — with Antony issuing a warning just two minutes in — but gradually settled into a more conservative rhythm, opting not to take excessive risks. 

This allowed Jagiellonia to grow into the match, winning more duels and applying increasing pressure around Fran Vieites’ box — an area they barely threatened in the first leg.

Hansen nearly got on the end of a dangerous cross from Imaz in the 21st minute, while Ricardo was forced off with an injury just two minutes later. 

In first-half stoppage time, Hansen found the back of the net, only for the goal to be disallowed after a VAR review confirmed Moutinho was clearly offside in the build-up.

Pellegrini appeared to recalibrate his team during the break, as Betis returned to the pitch with renewed intensity. 

They pressed high and forced several turnovers, with Lo Celso (56’) and Jesús Rodríguez (64’) both coming close to scoring. 

It was Bakambu who eventually broke through in the 78th minute, finishing a perfectly threaded pass from Aitor Ruibal, who had just come off the bench.

Bakambu continues to be Betis’ standout performer in the Conference League — his eight goals proving decisive in their historic run to the semifinals. 

While Jagiellonia managed to level the score shortly after, they were applauded off the pitch by their supporters, who also allowed the 300 traveling Betis fans to sing the club anthem in celebration. 

The home crowd then paid tribute to their own team with loud chants, honoring what has been a memorable Conference League campaign.