Crystal Palace defeated Rayo Vallecano 1-0 on Wednesday to win the UEFA Conference League, securing a coveted spot in next season's Europa League. The victory, sealed by a goal from Jean-Philippe Mateta, came in the club's first European campaign and marked an emotional farewell for manager Oliver Glasner.
Palace had been relegated to the third-tier competition due to multi-club ownership rules, but the London club's triumph in Leipzig guarantees their return to the Europa League. "Now Crystal Palace is there where they should be," said Glasner, who is departing after two-and-a-half years that included FA Cup and Community Shield titles.
Chairman Steve Parish described the achievement as a "dream come true" after 60 games this season. Midfielder Adam Wharton praised Glasner as "one of the best managers Palace have ever had."