The path to Leipzig was sealed on Thursday night at Selhurst Park. Following a 3-1 victory in the first leg, Oliver Glasner’s men finished the job with a 2-1 win at home, securing a 5-2 aggregate scoreline. Goals from Ismaila Sarr and an own goal by Shakhtar’s Pedrinho nullified a strike from Eguinaldo, sparking wild celebrations in the stands. On the other side of the bracket, Rayo Vallecano earned their spot by overcoming French side Strasbourg with a 2-0 aggregate win, ensuring a fresh and exciting matchup for the trophy.
The final in Leipzig is scheduled for a 21:00 CEST (20:00 BST) kickoff. As one of the most modern stadiums in Germany, the Red Bull Arena is expected to host a capacity crowd of over 40,000 fans. UEFA has confirmed that the winners will not only lift the trophy but also earn an automatic spot in the league phase of the 2026/27 UEFA Europa League. For Crystal Palace, the match serves as a final farewell to manager Oliver Glasner, who aims to depart the club with continental silverware.
Crystal Palace fans have already begun securing travel arrangements for the trip to Saxony. With both teams seeking their first-ever European title, the 2026 final is being hailed as one of the most unpredictable and historic matchups in the competition's brief history. Ticket information has been released via the official club website, with priority given to season ticket holders as the Eagles prepare for their biggest night on the international stage.