Crystal Palace have won the UEFA Conference League after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s second-half strike secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig.
The Eagles claimed the first European trophy in the club’s history in Oliver Glasner’s final match in charge, capping an extraordinary period of success that has transformed Palace from Premier League outsiders into genuine silverware winners.
Mateta proved the hero on the biggest night in the club’s history, reacting quickest after Augusto Batalla spilled Adam Wharton’s long-range effort into his path early in the second half.
The goal was enough to separate the sides after a tense and nervy final at the Red Bull Arena.
Jean-Philippe Mateta completes redemption story
Mateta’s winning goal carried extra significance given the uncertainty surrounding his future earlier in the season.
The striker had pushed for a January move to AC Milan, but the transfer collapsed after he reportedly failed a medical examination. Months later, he delivered the most important goal Crystal Palace have ever scored.
The Frenchman’s finish sparked wild celebrations both inside the stadium and back in south London, where thousands of supporters gathered at Selhurst Park to watch the final.
Having followed Palace throughout the campaign, Mateta repeatedly delivered during major moments and once again showed his importance when the pressure was highest.
Adam Wharton shines again in European final
While Mateta grabbed the decisive moment, Adam Wharton was once again central to Palace’s midfield control.
The England midfielder created Palace’s best first-half opening with a superb cross for Tyrick Mitchell before later forcing the save that led directly to the winner.
| Conference League final | Result |
|---|---|
| Final score | Crystal Palace 1-0 Rayo Vallecano |
| Goalscorer | Jean-Philippe Mateta |
| Venue | Red Bull Arena, Leipzig |
| Manager | Oliver Glasner |
source: Conference League final records – 27 May 2026
After a cautious first half with few clear chances, Palace improved considerably after the interval and looked the more dangerous side throughout much of the second period.
Yeremy Pino twice struck the woodwork while Mateta was denied a second goal by an excellent Batalla save as Palace searched for greater breathing space.
Oliver Glasner departs after historic success
The victory also marked an emotional ending for Oliver Glasner, who leaves Crystal Palace after overseeing the most successful spell in the club’s history.
Just over a year after guiding Palace to FA Cup glory against Manchester City, the Austrian now departs with another major trophy secured.
His side will also return to the Europa League next season after previously losing their place through multi-club ownership regulations.
However, it remains too early to know how Palace will cope with such significant change moving forward.
Key Points
- Crystal Palace defeated Rayo Vallecano 1-0 in the Conference League final
- Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the winning goal
- Oliver Glasner leaves after delivering another trophy
- Palace secured the first European title in club history
- Adam Wharton produced another impressive midfield display
What's next
Crystal Palace now prepare for life after Glasner while attempting to build on the most successful era the club has ever experienced.
Attention will quickly turn towards managerial succession plans and whether the squad can remain competitive following another historic campaign.
Can Crystal Palace continue rising after Oliver Glasner’s departure?
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