Crystal Palace defeated Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 on May 7 to advance to the UEFA Conference League final [1], [2].

The victory marks a historic milestone for the club, as it secures its first appearance in the decider of this competition [3].

Playing at Selhurst Park in London, Palace won the second leg of the semifinal with a 2-1 score [1], [2]. This result contributed to a five-two aggregate victory over the two legs [1]. The win ensures that the English side will compete for the trophy in Germany later this month.

Palace will face Rayo Vallecano in the final match [6]. The championship game is scheduled for May 27, 2026 [1]. The venue for the final will be Leipzig, Germany [1].

The club's progression follows a dominant performance across the semifinal series. By overcoming the Ukrainian side, Palace has solidified its position as a top contender in the tournament's closing stage.

Supporters and staff celebrated at the home stadium following the final whistle on Thursday. The match concludes a rigorous campaign that has seen the team navigate multiple rounds of continental competition to reach this stage [3].

“Crystal Palace defeated Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 on May 7 to advance to the UEFA Conference League final”

This advancement places Crystal Palace on the verge of a major European trophy, shifting the club's profile from a mid-table Premier League side to a continental competitor. Facing Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig represents a high-stakes encounter that could define the current era of the club's history.