Rayo Vallecano XI vs Crystal Palace – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·27 Mei 2026

Rayo Vallecano XI vs Crystal Palace – Predicted lineup and team news

Rayo Vallecano arrive in Germany, preparing for the biggest match in their 101-year history as they face Crystal Palace in the Europa Conference League final on Wednesday.

Iñigo Pérez has transformed his side into a formidable European force this season. They currently boast a remarkable nine-match unbeaten streak across all competitions. Rayo recently secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Alaves to finish eighth in the domestic standings. They missed out on European qualification through the league by a single point.

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Consequently, they must win this final to return to continental action next season. Rayo enjoyed a strong conclusion to their domestic league campaign. They did not let their European commitments derail their La Liga ambitions.

The Spanish club bypassed the playoff round after finishing fifth in the league phase. Both teams share identical records of three defeats in the competition this season. They overcame a difficult semi-final tie against French club Strasbourg to reach the final in Leipzig.

Rayo Vallecano team news

Pérez faces one major injury headache ahead of this monumental clash. Ilias Akhomach suffered an injury during the semi-final warm-up against Strasbourg. The talented attacker remains a severe doubt for the trip to Germany. However, Álvaro García returns to the squad in a massive boost for the Spaniards. García is the club’s second-highest scorer in the competition this season.

Alemão will lead the line after finding the net four times in Europe. Isi Palazón will provide crucial creative support from the midfield engine room. Rayo possess an incredible 64% win rate in major European competitions. They will need every ounce of that pedigree to overcome their English opponents. They are completely unbeaten in their last four matches on the road.

Pérez insists his players will not be distracted by the massive stadium atmosphere. They aim to play with bravery and control possession against their Premier League rivals. Augusto Batalla will start in goal behind a highly disciplined defensive quartet.

Rayo Vallecano predicted lineup

Rayo Vallecano predicted XI: Batalla; Rațiu, Lejeune, Ciss, Chavarría; Óscar Valentín, López, Isi Palazón, García, De Frutos; Alemão.

When will the match kick off?

The UEFA Conference League final at the Red Bull Arena kicks off at 20:00 BST on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

How to watch Crystal Palace vs Rayo Vallecano?

In the UK, the game will be televised live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage starting at 6.30pm. TNT Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the HBO Max app and website.