Mateta strike delivers famous Conference League win for Eagles

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s rollercoaster season ended in glory as he helped Crystal Palace to deserved victory over Rayo Vallecano in the Conference League final in Leipzig.

Jeered by Palace fans earlier in the season after failing to complete a sought-after move to AC Milan, the now forgiven striker was on hand to steer in a historic strike as Palace secured a place in the Europa League next year with their first European title.

Mateta’s goal sparked delirious scenes from Palace fans who tasted success again in manager Oliver Glasner’s final game.

Glasner departs having delivered three trophies in 12 months despite losing Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi to transfers.

Victory in Palace’s 60th game of the campaign also vindicated the supporters who felt so aggrieved that the club were denied Europa League football unfairly this season.

Such multi-ownership issues will be long forgotten now, with new management having more European trips to now look forward to.

After Aston Villa won the Europa League, and with Arsenal to come in the Champions League final, an all-Premier League sweep of continental titles remains on the cards.

A tense opening was broken with the first chance of the night falling to Alemao but the Rayo striker flicked a volley narrowly wide under pressure.

After a delay for a medical event in the crowd the Madrid side threatened again, with Unai Lopez curling wide from the edge of the area.

Palace’s midfield two of Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada were knitting together plenty of neat approach play but the Premier League side were lacking in the final third.

Wharton then produced a brilliant cross to the far post to find Tyrick Mitchell for the half’s best chance but the full-back could only head wide.

After the break Palace were well on top and took the lead with Mateta – named in the World Cup squad for France this week – scooping in a rebound after Wharton’s powerful shot was spilled.