Home / Sports / Rayo Vallecano Ends 24-Year European Drought, Hosts Debutants Shkendija
Rayo Vallecano Ends 24-Year European Drought, Hosts Debutants Shkendija
1 Oct
Summary
- Rayo Vallecano returns to European competition for the first time in 24 years
- Shkendija makes its European debut against the struggling Spanish side
- Vallecano winless since August, Shkendija unbeaten in last 5 games
On October 2nd, 2025, Rayo Vallecano will welcome Shkendija to the Estadio de Vallecas in their UEFA Conference League campaign opener. This marks Vallecano's return to European competition for the first time in 24 years, while the visitors from North Macedonia will be making their European debut.
The hosts have struggled of late, going winless in their last five games across all competitions. They suffered a 1-0 home defeat against Sevilla in La Liga last week and will be looking to bounce back here. Vallecano did, however, record a convincing 5-0 aggregate win over Neman in the Conference League qualifying playoffs in August.
In contrast, Shkendija has enjoyed a good run of form, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches and keeping three consecutive clean sheets. They registered a 2-0 home win over Sileks in the Macedonian First Football League last week.
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With Vallecano winless since August and Shkendija making their European debut, the stage is set for an intriguing encounter. The Spanish side will be without several key players due to injury, while the visitors will be eager to make a strong impression on their continental bow.
