VIDEO: USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso rewarded for relentless press with goal for Real Betis in Europa Conference League

U.S. international Johnny Cardoso started Betis' Europa Conference League clash with HJK Helsinki, and he was the unlikely goalscorer who put Betis on the board. His goal came in the 27th minute, as he pounced on a loose pass in the box to slot home, giving Betis the 1-0 lead. That would prove to be all they'd need, as the Spanish side held on to a 1-0 win against the Finnish opposition.

The goal is Cardoso's first of the season and second since moving to Real Betis in January.

The American midfielder finds himself fighting for a starting spot under new coach Mauricio Pochettino, Cardoso made his first appearance under Pochettino in Jamaica in November, but lasted just 21 minutes before being forced out with an injury. In total, Cardoso has made 18 USMNT appearances since earning his first senior cap in 2020.

The 23-year-old midfielder has been a regular for Betis since joining in January and has since drawn transfer interest from Tottenham due to his breakout performances in La Liga.

Betis, who currently sit ninth in La Liga, will be back in action on Sunday when they visit Rayo Vallecano in their final match of 2024. They'll then return to the field on Jan. 4 against Huesca in the Copa del Rey.

In addition, with Thursday's 1-0 win, Real Betis are bound for the Europa Conference League playoff round to kickstart the knockout phase.