Rayo Vallecano defeated Strasbourg 0-1 in the Conference League semi-finals and will contest its first European final on May 27 in Leipzig against Crystal Palace.
The Madrid side imposed a high block from the start and dominated the match at the Stade de la Meinau. Alemâo opened the scoring just before half-time after capitalising on a rebound from goalkeeper Penders.
Strasbourg attempted a response after the break, but Rayo maintained control. Goalkeeper Batalla saved a penalty in added time to secure the result.
The win gives Rayo its first possible European title and secures Spain’s fifth Champions League spot.