Real Betis continued its positive run of form on Thursday following a second-consecutive Europa Conference League victory and Johnny Cardoso was at the forefront of the result.
Cardoso scored the winning goal for Manuel Pellegrini’s squad as the La Liga hosts defeated HJK Helsinki 1-0 on home soil. The U.S. men’s national team midfielder started and logged 90 minutes as he continues his run back in the starting lineup.
A poor play from Helsinki goalkeeper Thijmen Nijhuis led to Cardoso pouncing on a loose ball in the box. Cardoso rounded Nijhuis before tapping into an empty net.
It marked Cardoso’s first goal of the season and his second overall goal contribution in all competitions.
Veteran goalkeeper Adrian registered a two-save shutout for Betis, helping the club extend its unbeaten run to five matches.
Cardoso won five duels, made three interceptions, completed two tackles, and completed 91% of his passes. The 23-year-old left the field with one of his better performances of the campaign.
Real Betis concludes its 2024 schedule with a home match against Rayo Vallecano on December 22.