Rayo Vallecano secure slim victory against Strasbourg in Conference League semi first leg

For the first time in their histories both teams were taking part in a significant European semi final so the early play in Madrid was predictably cautious.

The visitors saw Ben Chilwell send a hopeful shot from distance sailing high above the goal while Rayos Alemao could not guide his solid header towards the target at the opposite end.

The French outfit aimed to increase their pressure with Gary O Neils team enjoying much possession in the attacking zone yet Rayo stood firm and steadfast in defence after maintaining a clean sheet before the interval in five out of six European matches at home this season.

Buoyed by their strong backline Los Franjirrojos sought their own way through as the left back Pep Chavarria pulled a shot from a tight angle past the upright.

It stood as the home sides top moment before the break with Strasbourg squandering a decent opportunity right at half time via skipper Emmanuel Emegha who lifted a volley harmlessly over from 12 yards.

After suffering home losses only twice since October began with ten wins and seven draws Rayo burst forward energetically at the seconds half onset and their forward push paid off in the 54th minute via a first goal.

Isi Palazons curving corner delivery suited Alemao ideally allowing him to steer a fine header into the distant net past Mike Penders marking his third effort in the tournaments current edition.

Eager to extend their advantage the Madrid team kept control of the game as Florian Lejeune had a header neatly stopped by Penders while Ilias Akhomach fired a near post effort just askew.

The away side posed a short threat when Andrew Omobamidele missed from near the goal line but they owed gratitude to Penders once more when the on loan Chelsea player blocked an unchallenged header by Lejeune.

This turned out as the final notable attempt with the Alsace club staying solid to limit extra concessions paving the way for an intriguing second match in France the following week to decide a finalists place.