By Ayomide Otitoju
Crystal Palace have won the UEFA Conference League after a 1–0 victory over Rayo Vallecano in Wednesday’s final in Leipzig, securing the club’s first European trophy in their history.
France striker Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the decisive goal early in the second half, converting a rebound to seal the win and hand outgoing manager Oliver Glasner a farewell triumph.
The result marks the most successful period in Palace’s history under Glasner, who leaves with three trophies in two years after guiding the club through a historic European campaign.
Mateta, who spoke after the match, described the victory as a landmark moment for the club.
“First time in Europe, we did it! Now I just want to celebrate,” he said.
The win also ensured Palace’s return to the UEFA Europa League, after they were demoted to the Conference League due to multi-club ownership regulations despite initially qualifying for the higher-tier competition.
Despite the departures of key players including Eberechi Eze and Marc Guéhi during the season, Palace went on to lift the trophy in their debut European campaign.
Mateta, who had been close to a January move to AC Milan after a failed medical, proved decisive on the night.
The match remained tight in the first half, with Rayo Vallecano creating the better early chance through Alemao, while Tyrick Mitchell missed a golden opportunity for Palace just before the break.
Palace eventually broke through when Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla saved a powerful effort from Adam Wharton but parried it into Mateta’s path for a simple finish.
Yeremy Pino nearly doubled the lead moments later, striking the woodwork three times in a chaotic passage of play.
Rayo, who had beaten Strasbourg in the semi-finals, struggled to recover after conceding and were unable to find an equaliser.
The victory continues a strong run of success for London clubs in the competition, following wins for West Ham United in 2024 and Chelsea FC in 2025.
With Arsenal FC set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, English clubs could complete a sweep of European titles this season.
Palace also overcame domestic challenges, including key player exits and league struggles, to cap their European run with silverware and add to their recent FA Cup and Community Shield successes.
