Rayo Vallecano hero! Isi Palazón rewrites Spanish players’ Conference League history and sets two records at once
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
Madrid’s Rayo Vallecano took a major step toward the Conference League quarterfinals, delivering a confident victory over Turkish side Samsunspor in the first leg of the round of 16. The clash in Turkey ended 3-1 in favor of the visitors, but the highlight of the evening was not just the result—it was the phenomenal performance of the “Bees” talisman, Isi Palazón.
Details: According to Opta, Isi Palazón became the first player in Rayo Vallecano’s history to provide two assists in a single match of a major European competition. Thanks to his pinpoint passes, the Spanish club struck three times away against Samsunspor, securing a comfortable advantage ahead of the return leg at their home ground, Vallecas.
Beyond the club record, Isi’s achievement resonated nationwide. Palazón became the first player from any Spanish club to deliver two assists in a single Conference League match.
Since the tournament’s inception, no La Liga player had managed such an impressive creative display in a single game of this European competition. In doing so, the midfielder etched his name into the history books not only of Rayo Vallecano, but of all Spanish football.
Reminder: It was revealed what happened in the Manchester City dressing room after their defeat to Real Madrid.
