Europa League: Real Betis, Celta Vigo & Porto Reach QFs

March 20, 2026

In a thrilling night of UEFA Europa League football, three major clubs Real Betis, Celta Vigo, and FC Porto secured their spots in the quarterfinals of the 2025‑26 competition. The victories came as part of the Round of 16 second‑leg matches, with all three teams overcoming their respective ties to keep their European dreams alive. Their progress adds further excitement to one of Europe’s most competitive club tournaments.

Real Betis Dominate to Seal Advancement

Spanish side Real Betis delivered a commanding performance in their second‑leg match to overturn a first‑leg deficit and book their place in the Europa League quarterfinals. After dropping the first leg of their tie, Betis produced a strong attacking display in the return fixture, winning convincingly on aggregate thanks to a 4‑0 win in their home tie. Early goals from Aitor Ruibal and Sofyan Amrabat, followed by strikes from Cucho Hernandez and Antony, powered Betis through to the last eight with a 4‑1 aggregate scoreline.

This result was celebrated by Betis supporters, as the club continues its impressive European campaign under challenging knockout conditions.

Celta Vigo Knock Out Lyon with Solid Display

Celta Vigo also booked a quarterfinal berth thanks to a strong performance against French side Olympique Lyonnais. The Spanish club secured a 2‑0 win in the second leg in Lyon, giving them a 3‑1 aggregate victory over their French opponents. Goals from Javi Rueda and Ferran Jutglà proved decisive for Celta, who capitalised on Lyon being reduced to ten men during the match.

This win marked a notable achievement for Celta Vigo, who have shown resilience and tactical discipline to progress at this stage of Europe’s secondary club competition.

Porto Continue European Charge

Portuguese giants FC Porto completed their own impressive night by eliminating VfB Stuttgart from the tournament. Porto secured a 2‑0 victory in their match, which saw William Gomes and Victor Froholdt finding the net, leading to a 4‑1 aggregate success. Their performance underlined Porto’s experience and depth as a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.

Porto’s progression keeps alive their hope of going deep in European competition, adding further incentive for domestic and continental success.

Quarterfinal Matchups Take Shape

With these results, the Europa League quarterfinal picture is beginning to take shape. Clubs like FC Porto will face tough tests ahead Porto, for example, are slated to meet Nottingham Forest, who also advanced via penalties in their tie against FC Midtjylland. Meanwhile, Real Betis and Celta Vigo will continue their respective European campaigns with renewed confidence as knockout intensity increases.

Other teams such as Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Bologna, Freiburg, and Braga have also secured or could secure quarterfinal places, making for compelling fixtures as the tournament progresses.

European Nights Ahead

As the Europa League shifts into its quarterfinal phase, fans can expect high‑stakes football with tactical battles, passionate supporters, and players striving for European glory. Teams will now prepare for home and away matchups that could define their season, with the final set to be played in May 2026 at Beşiktaş Stadium in Istanbul.

For clubs like Betis, Celta Vigo, and Porto, reaching the last eight is both a reward for consistent performance and a challenge to go even further in one of Europe’s most exciting competitions.