Crystal Palace made history on Wednesday night after defeating Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in the UEFA Conference League final in Leipzig to secure their first-ever European trophy.
France striker Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the decisive goal early in the second half, reacting quickest to a rebound to hand Palace a landmark victory and deny Rayo Vallecano their own hopes of a first major European title.
The triumph also marked a fitting farewell for manager Oliver Glasner, who guided Palace to three trophies in two years, overseeing the most successful period in the club’s history.
“I feel fantastic. First time in Europe, we did it! Now I just want to celebrate, I just want to party,” Mateta said after the match.
“I’m tired, man. I gave everything. The team gave everything, and that’s why we won today.”
The victory came after a turbulent season for Palace, which included the departure of key players Eberechi Eze and Marc Guéhi, as well as squad uncertainty linked to mid-season transfer developments.
Despite those challenges, Glasner’s side delivered a disciplined and resilient European campaign, eventually lifting the trophy in their first full continental outing.
Glasner, who previously won the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022, once again demonstrated his reputation as a knockout competition specialist.
The Austrian also ensured Palace secured qualification for next season’s Europa League, overcoming earlier complications tied to multi-club ownership rules that had initially affected their European placement.
Mateta, the match-winner, had been close to leaving the club during the winter transfer window after a failed medical that reportedly halted a move to AC Milan.
Palace’s victory continues a strong run for London clubs in the competition, following recent wins by West Ham United in 2024 and Chelsea in 2025.
With Aston Villa already Europa League winners, attention now turns to Arsenal, who could complete a clean sweep of European trophies this season if they defeat Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final on Saturday.
