Crystal Palace booked their place in the Europa Conference League final with a commanding 3-1 win over Shakhtar Donetsk at Selhurst Park on Thursday night, securing a 5-2 aggregate victory.
First Half Dominance
The Eagles started brightly, with Eberechi Eze opening the scoring in the 12th minute after a slick passing move. Michael Olise doubled the lead just before half-time, curling a free-kick into the top corner.
Shakhtar Fight Back
Shakhtar pulled one back early in the second half through Danylo Sikan, but any hopes of a comeback were short-lived. Jean-Philippe Mateta restored Palace's two-goal cushion in the 67th minute, heading home from a Tyrick Mitchell cross.
Palace controlled the remainder of the game, with goalkeeper Dean Henderson making crucial saves to preserve the lead. The victory marks a historic achievement for the club, reaching their first European final.
Manager Oliver Glasner praised his team's performance, saying: "The players showed incredible character and quality. We deserved to go through."
Palace will face either Fiorentina or Club Brugge in the final, scheduled for May 29 in Athens.
