Glasner's palace revolution: European Cup win against Vallecano

Triumphant Palace revolution: Oliver Glasner has won a European Cup for the second time in four years and led London's mid-table club Crystal Palace to the biggest success in its history. The team of the former Bundesliga coach won the final of the Conference League in Leipzig against the Spanish representative Rayo Vallecano 1:0 (1:0). In front of 39,176 fans, former Mainz player Jean-Philippe Mateta (51st minute) scored the decisive goal and gave the departing Glasner the perfect finish.

In preparation for the match, Glasner, who had already won the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt in Seville in 2022, had asked his professionals to play a relaxed game of soccer tennis during the day. His plan was for the players to go into the biggest match in the club's history as relaxed as possible and with a clear head.

Rioting on the eve

However, the focus was initially not on the historic significance of the match for both teams, but on the fans, some of whom were prone to violence. On the evening before the final, supporters of both teams had clashed in Leipzig city center. Beer glasses, bottles and any tangible pub seating were thrown. According to the police, 320 fans were charged with breach of the peace. The operation lasted until shortly after three in the morning.

The matchday itself remained calm. The supporters of both teams created a tremendous atmosphere in the stadium and produced a volume that had possibly never been reached at matches of the home club RB Leipzig. They also rolled out some impressive choreography.

Great chance through Mitchell

The game was unable to keep up for a long time. Duels were fought with great aggression and both teams were extremely willing to run. That was at the expense of the game. Neither Palace nor Rayo managed a shot on goal in the first half. Nevertheless, there were three thrills. On 21 minutes, Yéremy Pino was on his way to the Rayo goal but was fouled by Pathé Ciss. Referee Maurizio Mariani showed a yellow card, but an emergency brake could also have been argued.

After around 35 minutes, the game was interrupted for around three minutes. A Vallecano fan had apparently fallen down a flight of stairs and required medical treatment. Palace then had their big chance in first-half stoppage time. Adam Wharton crossed from the back into the penalty area, but Tyrick Mitchell (45.+1), who was completely free to finish, headed the ball next to the goal.

Mateta is in the right place

After the restart, Wharton had another idea. Instead of crossing, the international shot from around 20 meters. Rayo goalkeeper Augusto Batalla deflected the ball forward - straight onto Mateta's foot. The goal gave Palace a boost - and great chances. A free-kick from Pino (55') landed first at the left post and then bounced from there to the right. Two minutes later, Mateta was in the right place again, but this time Batalla deflected the ball around the post.