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Crystal Palace Eliminates Shakhtar: Europa League and Conference League Finalists Confirmed

Кристал Пелас виборовав перемогу над Шахтарем: команди-фіналісти Ліги Європи та Ліги конференцій визначені. Photo: Главком

Europa League and Conference League Semi-Final Results

The semi-finals of the Europa League and Conference League wrapped up on May 7, 2026. In the Conference League, Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano secured their spots in the final, while Aston Villa and Freiburg will battle for the Europa League trophy. These matches determined which clubs will continue their quest for silverware.

Semi-Final Match Details

Two semi-final clashes took place in the Conference League. At Crystal Palace's home stadium, the hosts defeated Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1, with goals coming from:

  • Pedro Henrique (own goal, 25th minute)
  • Sarr (52nd minute) for Crystal Palace
  • Eguinaldo (34th minute) for Shakhtar

The aggregate score ended 5-2 in favor of Crystal Palace. In the other semi-final, Rayo Vallecano edged out Strasbourg 1-0, making the aggregate 2-0. The only goal of the match was scored by Alamao in the 42nd minute.

The Europa League also featured two semi-finals. Aston Villa dominated Nottingham Forest with a 4-0 victory, thanks to goals from:

  • Watkins (36th minute)
  • Buendía (58th minute)
  • McGinn (77th and 80th minutes)

The aggregate score was 4-1 in Aston Villa's favor. In the match between Freiburg and Braga, Freiburg triumphed 3-1. Goals were scored by:

  • Kübler (19th and 72nd minutes)
  • Manzambi (41st minute) for Freiburg
  • Victor (79th minute) for Braga

Braga also received a red card in the 6th minute of the match. The aggregate score was 4-3 in Freiburg's favor.

The Europa League and Conference League finals are scheduled for May 20 and May 27, 2026, respectively. The Europa League final will take place at Beşiktaş Stadium in Istanbul at 10:00 PM, while the Conference League final will be held at Red Bull Arena in Leipzig at the same time. These matches promise to be thrilling and high-stakes, as the teams compete for prestige and titles.

The conclusion of the semi-finals marks a pivotal stage in the 2025-2026 football season, with teams approaching the decisive moments of their European campaigns. The upcoming finals will not only determine the champions but also impact club rankings and their chances of qualifying for future European tournaments.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming finals, it's important to reflect on how teams like Freiburg and Aston Villa secured their spots in the semi-finals. Their recent performances highlight the competitive nature of these tournaments. For a detailed look at how these clubs advanced, check out our coverage of the Conference League semi-finals.