RC Strasbourg lost 1-0 to Rayo Vallecano on Thursday evening in Madrid, in the first leg of the Conference League semi-final. Alemão's goal from a corner in the 55th minute proved decisive. The return leg is scheduled for next Thursday at La Meinau.
Rayo Vallecano gained the upper hand in this Conference League semi-final first leg, defeating Strasbourg 1-0 at Estadio de Vallecas. The Spaniards, led by Isi Palazon, opened the scoring in the 55th minute through a lucky goal by Alemão from a corner. The first half featured low technical quality, with no shots on target.
Strasbourg, coached by Gary O’Neil, delivered a mediocre performance, managing only three attempts with none on target. Forward Emanuel Emegha was substituted in the 83rd minute after a disappointing evening. Goalkeeper Mike Penders shone with two key saves, in the 63rd on a corner and in the 87th on a header from Florian Lejeune.
This marks the first European semi-final for both clubs. Strasbourg, which overturned Mainz in the quarters (0-2 loss away, 4-0 win home), must repeat the feat at La Meinau on May 7 at 9pm to reach its first European final. Rayo will need to hold firm in the Alsatian stadium.
