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Crystal Palace 1-0 Rayo Vallecano: Mateta’s strike earns Eagles first European title

Crystal Palace beat Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in the Europa Conference League final at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig on Wednesday.

They have now become the third Premier League side to win the competition, following London neighbours Chelsea and West Ham United.

Palace started brightly, dominating possession, but were unable to create any real chances.

Vallecano created the first opening in the 25th minute. Isi Palazon whipped a low cross into the box, but Alemao failed to hit the target.

The Spanish side created another opportunity in the 39th minute, when Jorge de Frutos teed up Unai Lopez, but he dragged his effort wide.

Palace eventually threatened in the first half stoppage time. Adam Wharton clipped a superb ball to Tyrick Mitchell, who headed wide.

Mitchell almost made amends for his miss after the break. He sent a dangerous cross towards Jean-Philippe Mateta, but Florian Lejeune averted the danger.

Palace broke the deadlock in the 50th minute. Wharton’s effort was parried away by Augusto Batalla, but only as far as Jean-Philippe Mateta, who put the ball into the net.

Yeremy Pino came close to doubling the Eagles’ lead, but was denied by the woodwork. Batalla then thwarted Mateta.

Palace’s attacking momentum fizzled out, but Vallecano did not threaten at the other end.

Oliver Glasner’s side held on to claim a memorable victory and a place in next season’s Europa League.

Related TopicsCrystal Palace Europa Conference League Match Reports

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