Ilias Akhomach scores as Rayo Vallecano cruise past AEK Athens in Conference League Quarter-Final

Spanish side Rayo Vallecano secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Greek visitors AEK Athens in the first leg of the UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-finals, taking a major step toward the semi-finals.

The hosts made a dream start to the game, opening the scoring just two minutes in through Moroccan international Ilias Akhomach. The early strike marked Akhomach’s first goal for the Spanish club since joining, giving his side immediate control of the encounter.

Rayo Vallecano continued to dominate and doubled their lead just before the break, with Unai López finding the net in added time of the first half (45+2), ensuring a relatively comfortable advantage heading into halftime.

In the second half, the Spanish side maintained their superiority and added a third goal in the 74th minute. Isi Palazón converted from the penalty spot to seal the win.

Akhomach, who was making his mark in the competition, registered his first goal in the Conference League after two appearances. The Moroccan winger was substituted in the 55th minute.

With this convincing result, Rayo Vallecano have effectively placed one foot in the semi-finals, heading into the second leg with a significant advantage.

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