Real Betis qualify for Champions League after 21-year absence

Real Betis have secured a return to the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night, clinching a top-five finish in La Liga with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Elche. The result ends a 21-year exile from Europe's premier club competition for the Andalusian side, whose last appearance came in the 2005/06 season.

Real Betis qualify for Champions League after 21-year absence

Cucho Hernández gave Betis the lead early with a goal assisted by Pablo Fornals. Elche equalized before halftime through a stunning strike from Héctor Fort, but Fornals restored the advantage in the 68th minute with a long-range rocket.

The win lifted Manuel Pellegrini's team to 57 points, seven clear of sixth-placed Celta Vigo with two matches remaining. Spain's strong UEFA coefficient ensured the top five La Liga sides qualify directly for the expanded Champions League format.

The qualification marks a major achievement for a club often overshadowed by bigger La Liga spenders. Celebrations erupted on the pitch with players, including Brazilian winger Antony, ripping off their shirts amid a sea of green-and-white flags. Antony, who joined Betis permanently from Manchester United in 2025 after an initial loan, has played a key role in the club's resurgence.

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