Crystal Palace made history on Wednesday night after defeating Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in the UEFA Conference League final to secure the club’s first European trophy.
The final, played in Leipzig, saw Jean-Philippe Mateta score the game’s only goal in the second half to crown a memorable night for Palace supporters.
After a tense first half with limited clear-cut opportunities, the breakthrough finally arrived in the 51st minute.
Palace midfielder Adam Wharton unleashed a powerful effort from outside the box, but Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla could only parry the ball into Mateta’s path, allowing the French striker to react quickly and tap home from close range.
The victory marked a perfect farewell for Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who leaves the club after delivering three trophies in two years — the most successful period in Crystal Palace history.
Glasner, who previously guided Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League success, once again showcased his tactical brilliance in knockout football competitions.
Crystal Palace’s European success came despite major challenges throughout the season, including the departures of key players Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi.
The win also guaranteed Palace a return to the Europa League next season after they were previously demoted from the competition to the Conference League due to multi-club ownership regulations.
Meanwhile, Rayo Vallecano entered the final full of confidence after going unbeaten in nine matches and stunning Strasbourg in the semi-finals.
However, the Spanish side struggled to break down Palace’s disciplined defence after conceding.
Rayo had an early opportunity through Alemao in the first half, while Palace nearly opened the scoring before halftime when Tyrick Mitchell headed narrowly wide from Wharton’s precise cross.
Palace almost doubled their advantage later in the second half after Yeremy Pino’s free-kick struck both goalposts in a dramatic sequence, but Rayo managed to clear the danger.
The victory means Crystal Palace became the third London club in three years to win the UEFA Conference League, following triumphs by West Ham United in 2024 and Chelsea in 2025.
With Arsenal also preparing for the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, Premier League clubs continue to dominate European football competitions.
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