Aspas Leads Celta to Europa League as Rayo Secures Conference Spot

Iago Aspas' decisive performance secured Celta Vigo's spot in the Europa League for the upcoming season, while Rayo Vallecano celebrated their qualification for the Conference League following a goalless draw. Osasuna, on the other hand, failed to break the deadlock against Alavés at Mendizorroza, missing out on European competition due to goal difference. Claudio Giraldez's team was the only one to clinch victory after a comeback win in Getafe.

Celta initially fell behind against a Getafe side eager to celebrate their survival in front of their home fans. Additionally, with their local rivals Leganes relegated earlier in the day, Getafe's players entered the pitch with confidence. However, the Galicians, who controlled their own destiny, overturned Borja Mayoral's goal. It was Borja Iglesias and the evergreen Iago Aspas who returned Celta to European competition after an eight-year absence.

The last memory of this competition in Vigo dates back to 2017, when they were defeated in the semi-finals by Manchester United. Celta had the chance to reach the final with a last-minute attempt by Guidetti, which unfortunately missed. Claudio Giraldez's squad has been rejuvenated with fresh talent and aims to make a strong impression in Europe next season.

The last and only time Rayo Vallecano played in European competition was in the 2000/2001 season, where they were invited due to their fair play record from the previous season. That year, they were knocked out in the UEFA Cup quarter-finals by the historic runner-up Alavés. In 2014, Rayo qualified again but financial issues prevented their participation. Next year, continental football will return to Vallecas.

The final team with a chance to qualify was Osasuna, but they were unsuccessful after drawing at Mendizorroza. Raul García equalised Carlos Vicente's goal, but it wasn't enough to secure qualification. The "Rojillos" fell one goal short of playing in Europe, with their inconsistency throughout the campaign costing them this opportunity.