In the 38th minute, capitalizing on a miscommunication between Dinamo Zagreb's goalkeeper and defender, Antony seized the opportunity, chipping the ball into an empty net to make the score 3-0. This extended the Brazilian forward's scoring and assisting streak to five consecutive matches, with a total of eight goals across all competitions: three in the Europa League and five in La Liga.

Earlier, Betis had taken a 2-0 lead through Rodrigo Riquelme and an own goal by Sergi Dominguez. Dinamo Zagreb's second-half efforts resulted in a late consolation goal from substitute Niko Galesic.

Antony chips the ball into an empty net, making the score 3-0 in Betis's match against Dinamo Zagreb at Maksimir Stadium, Zagreb, Croatia on 11/12. Photo: Reuters

With the 3-1 victory, Betis climbed to 4th in the Europa League standings with 14 points, 7 points ahead of 25th-placed Dinamo Zagreb. The Spanish representative secured a spot in the top 24, with only two group stage matches remaining. Betis's next goal is to win both remaining matches, against PAOK and Feyenoord, to finish in the top 8 and earn direct qualification to the round of 16.

"We knew the importance of today's match to secure our advancement", Antony said after the game. "The whole team played well, which gives us confidence for upcoming matches. I am happy to score, but even happier that the team won. These three points are crucial. I want to continue scoring more goals to help the team".

The 25-year-old forward also stated that ankle pain from opponent tackles is a normal part of football. He praised teammates like Rodrigo Riquelme and Nelson Deossa for their impressive performances.

Coach Manuel Pellegrini highlighted the team's maturity in the victory. "We had a complete game", he stated. "In the first half, we controlled the tempo and pressed effectively to score three goals. In the second half, the team deliberately slowed the pace and maintained possession".

The Chilean coach expressed satisfaction with achieving the goal of securing three points and advancing from the group stage. "It was important to secure qualification in this match", he emphasized. "Our next objective is to finish in the top eight teams to avoid the play-off round".

On 15/12, Betis will visit Rayo for La Liga matchday 16.

Hong Duy