Mateta glowing after Palace's 'fantastic' Conference League

Crystal Palace FC v Rayo Vallecano de Madrid - UEFA Conference League Final 2026

Jean-Philippe Mateta was buzzing after his decisive goal secured Crystal Palace's first-ever European title with a 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano. The Frenchman struck in the second half to cap off a historic night for the South London club at the Red Bull Arena.

Mateta celebrates historic triumph

Crystal Palace striker Mateta could not hide his emotion after his goal secured the Conference League title for the Eagles. Speaking shortly after the final whistle, the forward reflected on a landmark achievement for a club that only a few years ago would have considered European silverware a distant dream.

"I feel fantastic! I feel fantastic! We did it! First time in Europe and we did it. Now I just want to celebrate. This guy [Joel Ward] has to celebrate with us," Mateta told TNT Sports. The striker was the hero of the night, producing an instinctive finish that was ugly but effective to break the deadlock in a tense final.

Crystal Palace FC v Rayo Vallecano de Madrid - UEFA Conference League Final 2026

Giving everything for the victory

The match was a gruelling affair, with Rayo Vallecano pushing the Premier League side to their physical limits. Mateta admitted that the intensity of the Spanish side required every ounce of energy from Oliver Glasner’s squad to ensure they stayed ahead following his second-half opener.

"We gave everything. I told you about the intensity they will have and I am tired right now, I gave everything. That's why we won today. I am always with the fans. They have supported me a lot as a player. They are always behind us. We did it for them too," the Frenchman added. His goal came after he reacted quickest to Adam Wharton’s shot being parried into his path by the Rayo goalkeeper.

Wharton stars in the midfield

While Mateta provided the finishing touch, it was Wharton who dictated the tempo of the game for long stretches. Despite the disappointment of being overlooked by Thomas Tuchel for England's World Cup squad recently, the young midfielder delivered a masterclass in distribution that pinned the Spanish side back for much of the first hour.

Wharton was unlucky not to have an assist earlier in the game when Tyrick Mitchell somehow managed to head wide from a pinpoint lofted ball. Ultimately, the 22-year-old’s influence proved decisive as his drive from distance created the chaos in the box that allowed Mateta to strike the winner.

Crystal Palace FC v Rayo Vallecano de Madrid - UEFA Conference League Final 2026

Glasner’s perfect parting gift

The victory provides a fairytale ending for manager Glasner, who has completely transformed the fortunes of the club during his tenure. Having already guided Palace to an FA Cup win against Manchester City a year prior, this European success cements his legacy as one of the most successful managers in the club's history.

Though the Eagles were somewhat wasteful in front of goal, with Yeremy Pino hitting both posts with a spectacular free-kick, they held firm at the back to ensure the clean sheet. As the players beginning their celebrations, the focus remains on the incredible journey from domestic cup winners to European champions in just twelve months.