Ezzalzouli and Amrabat inspire Real Betis to historic Champions League return after 21-year wait

Real Betis have booked their place in the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League after securing a 2-1 victory over Elche on Tuesday night in La Liga’s Matchday 36 encounter.

The crucial win guarantees the Andalusian club a top-five finish and confirms their return to Europe’s elite competition for the first time since the 2005/06 season.

Under the guidance of experienced manager Manuel Pellegrini, Betis achieved qualification with two games still left to play, capping off what has been a remarkable campaign for the Seville-based outfit.

The achievement sparked jubilant celebrations across Seville as supporters finally witnessed the end of a painful 21-year absence from the Champions League.

Spain’s additional Champions League qualification slot through UEFA’s coefficient rankings also proved significant this season, with fifth place enough to earn automatic qualification to the competition.

Moroccan duo Abdessamad Ezzalzouli and Sofyan Amrabat played key roles in Betis’ successful campaign.

Ezzalzouli established himself as one of the team’s standout performers throughout the season, delivering several decisive displays in attack and becoming a major weapon in Pellegrini’s system.

Amrabat also made an important contribution in midfield, offering stability, leadership, and experience during the decisive stages of the campaign.

The qualification carries extra importance for the Moroccan midfielder, with reports suggesting his future at the club depended on Betis securing Champions League football next season.

Speaking about Amrabat’s impact, Pellegrini said, “We must first assess our final league position and consider the various changes that might occur within the squad for different reasons.”

He added, “Sofyan is a player who has provided us with added value in a position where we lacked an experienced player for this role. The defensive midfielder plays a very crucial role.”

Betis remained among La Liga’s strongest sides throughout the season and ultimately sealed their long-awaited European return with the victory over Elche.

The qualification also guarantees that two Atlas Lions stars will feature in next season’s UEFA Champions League.