AEK were heavily beaten in Vallecas, as Rayo Vallecano prevailed 3-0 and laid a very solid foundation for them to advance to the Conference League semifinals. The Union will have to pull off a miracle similar to the one against CPP in 1977 to qualify.
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The Spaniards took the lead in just the second minute. Alvaro Garcia made a nice run down the back of the defence from the right, took a turn into the area and Akhomah shot well and put the ball into the net.
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The second goal came just before the end of the first half. The scorer of the first goal shot from the left, Strakosa intervened weakly and Unai Lopez sent the ball into the net. He was even redeemed as it was because of him that Lejeune’s earlier goal was cancelled out.
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AEK got the ball on their feet and tried to threaten Bataglia’s frame, having a few chances, but it all went wrong and backwards. On 72 minutes Madrid won a penalty via VAR for Relvas’ handball and Issi Palazón scored from the whitewash.
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The return leg is a week later at the Allwyn Arena at 10pm and the Union will be looking for a big upset to continue their European journey. Luka Jovic will be absent from this game, who saw a yellow card for a protest and added to his card count.
