Crystal Palace reached their first-ever European final on Thursday after defeating Shakhtar Donetsk 5-2 on aggregate in the semi-finals of the UEFA Conference League.
The Eagles, who carried a 3-1 advantage from the first leg, secured a 2-1 victory at Selhurst Park to complete a memorable night in south London.
Palace took the lead in the 25th minute after a dangerous attacking move led to an own goal from Pedro Henrique. Goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk failed to stop Daniel Munoz’s follow-up effort after initially parrying Adam Wharton’s long-range strike.
Shakhtar responded through Eguinaldo, who calmly finished into the top corner to level the match at 1-1 before halftime.
However, Palace regained control early in the second half when Ismaila Sarr scored his ninth goal of the competition from close range after connecting with Tyrick Mitchell’s cross.
The English side comfortably managed the remainder of the game to seal their place in the final, where they will face Rayo Vallecano in Leipzig later this month. The Spanish club advanced after beating Strasbourg 2-0 on aggregate.
Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson praised the team’s progress under manager Oliver Glasner, saying the coach had transformed the squad’s mentality and belief.
The final on May 27 will mark Glasner’s last game in charge of Palace after he announced earlier in the season that he would leave when his contract expires next month.
Since arriving in 2024, the Austrian manager has overseen one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, guiding Palace to their first major trophy with victory over Manchester City in last season’s FA Cup final.
Palace also won the Community Shield against Liverpool earlier this season.
The Conference League represents another major opportunity for the club, with the winner earning automatic qualification for next season’s Europa League.
