Alemao's second-half header was enough to secure Rayo Vallecano a narrow 1-0 win over Strasbourg in their Conference League semi-final first leg.
Rayo were utterly dominant throughout, limiting Strasbourg to no shots on target, though they survived a penalty check late in the game to ensure they will take a lead to France.
The first half was a cagey affair with few clear-cut chances, with Ben Chilwell sending Strasbourg's best chance over the crossbar with a long-range sighter.
Alemao's header skewed wide from close range, before Emmanuel Emegha's effort from inside the box sailed over the crossbar on the stroke of half-time.
Rayo stepped up their pressure after the break, with Isi Palazon's long-range drive spilt by Mike Penders before he turned provider, teeing up Alemao's looping header from a left-sided corner 54 minutes in.
Penders made a stunning save to keep out Florian Lejeune's header shortly after, while Ilias Akhomach, Unai Lopez and Pathe Ciss all tried their luck without finding an opening.
Rayo did survive a late penalty check when Andrew Omobamidele appeared to be caught by a high boot in the box, but nothing was given following a VAR review, and Rayo have the advantage to take away from Estadio de Vallecas.
¡¡¡FINAAAAL EN VALLECAS!!!
— Rayo Vallecano (@RayoVallecano) April 30, 2026
¡Victoria por 1-0 en la ida de las semifinales de la Conference League con un gol de @alemao_zrwk9 (54')!#RayoRCSA #UECL pic.twitter.com/kz4XUcw0P5
Data Debrief: Rayo revelling in first semi-final
Having reached the last four of a major European competition for the first time in club history, Rayo are one step closer to writing their name into folklore.
They have now won the first leg of all three of their Conference League knockout ties this season, though they have lost the second leg on both previous occasions – not a good omen.
Rayo were well deserving of their win, though, racking up 24 shots worth 1.41 expected goals (xG), with Strasbourg mustering just 0.21 xG from five off-target attempts.
And Rayo are the only team in the competition this season with more than one player with 3+ goals and 3+ assists: Alvaro García and Isi Palazon (three goals and three assists each).