Crystal Palace supporters are set for a historic occasion as around 6,000 fans travel to southern Poland for the first leg of their Conference League semi-final against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday evening. Many hope to see their team add more silverware to the FA Cup and Community Shield already won under manager Oliver Glasner.
Glasner Cautious Despite Confidence
Glasner, who led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022, has downplayed Palace's chances but admitted the team is focused. "The road is shorter now," he said. "When you get to this stage, everybody wants to win. We have huge desire, confidence, and belief we can beat Shakhtar Donetsk, but we also have huge respect for them."
Palace's demotion from European football's second-tier competition due to Uefa's multiclub ownership rules now seems a distant memory. Despite an early league-stage embarrassment against Larnaca, the team has grown in European expertise.
Resilience After Setbacks
After a club-record 19-match unbeaten run, including an FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, the departure of captain Marc Guéhi to City in January threatened progress. A 12-match winless streak followed, with suggestions Glasner sought dismissal after accusing the board of abandoning him. However, both Glasner and chairman Steve Parish helped Palace rediscover their resolve.
"I didn't fall out with the chairman; we just had discussions," Glasner said. "The players make it easy for me because they always listen and give their best. I love managing this group."
Shakhtar Donetsk: Formidable Opposition
Palace face a Shakhtar side that has lost only once in 23 matches. Despite being displaced from their Donbas Arena since 2014 due to the Russian invasion, they enjoy vociferous exiled support. Manager Arda Turan said, "There is war in Ukraine, yet people live their lives. This nation never gives up."
Mitchell Eyes Trophy for Glasner
Defender Tyrick Mitchell, Palace's only fitness concern, has travelled and is eager to win another trophy for Glasner before he leaves. "That's one of the main reasons. Winning for ourselves and for the gaffer," Mitchell said. "We see his dedication every day. Winning a competition would be the best sendoff."
