Rayo Vallecano, the working-class club from the outskirts of Madrid, is preparing for its first European final. They will face Premier League side Crystal Palace in the Conference League final in Leipzig.
For Rayo, this match is more than a game. It is a vindication of their identity. Known as the last of the 'barrio' teams, Rayo's supporters pride themselves on being different. The stadium, nestled in a tight-knit neighborhood, holds just 14,700 fans.
The season has been marred by conflict with owner Raul Martin Presa. In February, a league ruling forced Rayo to play local rivals Atletico Madrid at a neutral venue due to an unplayable pitch. Only about 5,000 fans attended, and the few who did chanted for Presa to leave.
Players and staff have complained about poor infrastructure, including a lack of hot water and inadequate cleaning at the training ground. Presa has not commented.
Despite the turmoil, the team has kept climbing. Manager Inigo Perez has guided Rayo to two 1-0 victories over Strasbourg in the semi-finals, with striker Alemao scoring key goals.
Crystal Palace arrives with its own history. In its first European campaign, Palace has reached the final after a long and brilliant run. Ismaila Sarr has been the star, scoring nine goals in the tournament.
Palace is concerned about the fitness of U.S. defender Chris Richards and playmaker Adam Wharton, both nursing ankle injuries. Victory would deliver a trophy and a place in next season's Europa League.