Abdessamad Ezzalzouli scores but Braga stun Betis with Europa League comeback

Moroccan winger Abdessamad Ezzalzouli was on target for Real Betis, but it was SC Braga who produced a dramatic comeback to win 4-2 on the night and advance to the Europa League semi-finals.

The Portuguese side overturned the tie in a thrilling quarter-final second leg on Thursday, progressing 5-3 on aggregate after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

Despite Betis taking early control, Braga responded strongly to secure their place in the final four.

Real Betis appeared to be on course for qualification during a dominant first-half display.

Brazilian forward Antony opened the scoring in the 13th minute, before Ezzalzouli doubled the advantage in the 26th minute, giving the Spanish side a commanding position in the tie.

However, the momentum began to shift before the interval when Pau Víctor pulled a goal back for Braga, reigniting the contest and setting the stage for a second-half turnaround.

After the break, Braga emerged with renewed intensity and quickly took control of the match.

Vítor Carvalho reduced the deficit further in the 49th minute, before Ricardo Horta converted a penalty just four minutes later to bring the hosts level on the night.

With Betis struggling to respond, Braga completed the comeback in the 74th minute through Jean-Baptiste Gorby, sealing a 4-2 victory and securing their progression to the semi-finals.

The result marked a significant shift in the tie, with Braga capitalising on their second-half dominance against an opponent who had earlier looked in control.

Despite Ezzalzouli’s contribution, Betis were unable to maintain their early advantage, as Braga’s attacking response proved decisive over the two legs.

Braga will now face Freiburg in the semi-finals after the German side overcame Celta Vigo, winning 3-0 in the first leg and 3-1 in the return fixture.