Betis' 2025 rollercoaster: European final, derby doubles and Antony's dream move
A look back at Real Betis' memorable 2025 - from reaching their first European final to finally dominating their Sevilla rivals after three decades.
Real Betis close out 2025 with Pellegrini’s wise words ringing in their ears: make next year’s worst moments better than this year’s best. It’s been a proper diamond of a year for the Verdiblancos with more highs than lows.
Winter window wizardry
After a dodgy patch and Copa del Rey elimination against Barcelona, sporting director Manu Fajardo pulled off some proper transfer magic. Out went Juanmi and Vitor Roque, in came Cucho Hernández and the real game-changer - Antony.
The Brazilian’s January arrival was initially seen as a gamble but turned into the best winter signing across Europe. Coupled with Jesús Rodríguez’s emergence and Isco finding his mojo again, Pellegrini’s squad transformation was complete.
European nights to remember
Thousands of Betis supporters made the pilgrimage to Wrocław on May 28th for the club’s first European final in their century-plus history. Despite falling short against the loaded Chelsea side (1-4), it planted the seed for future continental ambitions.
This season they’re back in the Europa League (missing Champions League qualification was the only real disappointment) and reached December undefeated in Europe, guaranteeing at least a knockout round appearance.
Derby dominance at last
2025 marked a watershed moment in Seville’s eternal rivalry:
- March 30: Betis 2-1 Sevilla (Cucho and Cardoso overturning Rubén Vargas’ opener)
- November: A stunning away victory at the Sánchez-Pizjuán with Fornals and Altimira doing the damage
This double derby triumph represents Betis’ first consecutive league wins over their neighbors in over 30 years. Talk about bragging rights down the boozer!
New beginnings
The demolition of the beloved Benito Villamarín stadium began this year to make way for a new ground, with La Cartuja serving as temporary home until the Heliópolis return.
Off the pitch, crucial contract extensions for both Pellegrini and Isco provided stability, while Antony’s permanent signing after his loan spell became the stuff of legend. The Brazilian’s arrival scenes - greeted at San Pablo’s private terminal and unveiled by the Guadalquivir River - will live long in the memory of every Betis supporter.
As the curtain falls on a memorable 2025, Betis fans can’t wait to see what the new year brings.