Antony leads Real Betis into Europa League last 16 with decisive Feyenoord display

On Jan 31, 2026

Antony continued his remarkable European revival as Real Betis sealed a 2-1 victory over Feyenoord to secure a fourth-placed finish in the Europa League league phase and book a place in the last 16.

The Brazilian winger was the standout figure on Thursday night, scoring a superb opening goal before providing the assist for Betis’ second in a performance that once again underlined his importance to Manuel Pellegrini’s side.

Betis struck first midway through the opening half and tightened their grip shortly after the half-hour mark, with Feyenoord only managing a late response that proved too little, too late.

The result capped an impressive European campaign for the Seville club and highlighted Antony’s growing influence following his departure from Manchester United, where opportunities had become increasingly limited under former head coach Ruben Amorim.

The Estadio Benito Villamarin was in full voice as Betis started on the front foot, pressing high and moving the ball with confidence. Antony, operating from the right, immediately looked sharp, frequently driving at his marker and linking neatly with the midfield runners.

The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute. Antony collected possession on the edge of the penalty area, shifted the ball onto his left foot, and curled a precise effort into the inside of the side-netting, leaving the Feyenoord goalkeeper rooted to the spot.

Betis doubled their advantage just after the half-hour. Antony embarked on a trademark dribble down the flank, weaving past two defenders before delivering a perfectly weighted cross that Adbe Ezzalzouli nodded home to give the hosts full control.

Feyenoord threatened briefly after the interval, forcing Betis into a more compact shape, and a late goal raised the tension inside the stadium. However, Pellegrini’s side managed the closing stages well, slowing the tempo and seeing out the win with composure.