In a thrilling curtain-raiser to the 2025/26 English football season, Crystal Palace emerged victorious in the Community Shield, defeating Premier League champions Liverpool 3-2 on penalties after a pulsating 2-2 draw at Wembley Stadium.
The FA Cup holders showcased resilience and composure under pressure, with goalkeeper Dean Henderson proving the hero in the shootout. This marks Palace's first-ever Community Shield triumph, a historic moment for the south London club.
This feels familiar 👀😍#CPFC pic.twitter.com/GYAtXimSEm
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) August 10, 2025
Match Summary: A Tale of Comebacks and Debut Drama
The game exploded into life early on, with Liverpool's new signing Hugo Ekitike announcing his arrival just four minutes in. The French forward latched onto a precise assist from fellow debutant Florian Wirtz to slot home the opener, giving the Reds a dream start in Arne Slot's first competitive outing as manager.
Palace, however, refused to be overawed. In the 17th minute, Ismaïla Sarr was fouled by Virgil van Dijk inside the box, earning a penalty that Jean-Philippe Mateta coolly converted to level the scores. Mateta's strike was a redemption arc of sorts, following his missed spot-kick in last season's FA Cup final.
Liverpool regained the lead shortly after in the 21st minute through another debutant, Jeremie Frimpong. What appeared to be a hopeful cross looped over Henderson and nestled into the net off the far post, highlighting the attacking flair Slot has injected into his squad with summer acquisitions.
The second half saw Palace grow in confidence, with Eberechi Eze forcing a sharp save from Alisson Becker. The equalizer arrived in the 77th minute courtesy of Sarr, who finished off a neat assist from Adam Wharton to send the game to penalties.
In the shootout, Mohamed Salah blazed Liverpool's first effort over the bar, setting a nervy tone. Henderson then saved from Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott, while Mateta, Sarr, and young Justin Devenny scored for Palace to seal a 3-2 win.
Key Performers: Heroes and Heartaches
- Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace): The former Manchester United man was instrumental, making crucial saves during the match and stopping two penalties in the shootout. His performance earned him widespread praise, with Henderson himself declaring, "I love big moments."
- Ismaïla Sarr (Crystal Palace): A constant threat, Sarr won the penalty for the first equalizer, scored the second, and converted his shootout kick. His all-action display was pivotal in Palace's comeback.
- Hugo Ekitike (Liverpool): Impressive on debut with an early goal, though he spurned two chances in the second half. A promising sign for the Reds' revamped attack.
- Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz (Liverpool): Both new arrivals contributed to goals, but defensive lapses, particularly against Sarr and Eze, highlighted areas for improvement.
Liverpool's penalties woes were compounded by misses from star players, echoing past shootout heartbreaks.
Managerial Reactions: Optimism Amid Defeat
Liverpool boss Arne Slot remained philosophical post-match, noting that only eight Community Shield winners in the Premier League era have gone on to lift the title. He emphasized the need for more clinical finishing ahead of their opener against Bournemouth, acknowledging the team's status as favorites after heavy summer spending.
For Palace manager Oliver Glasner, the win provides a massive boost amid off-field uncertainties, including an ongoing appeal against their demotion to the Europa Conference League due to multi-ownership rules. Glasner will hope this sets the tone for a strong campaign.
Looking Ahead: Season Implications
For Palace, this victory could galvanize their squad as they await the appeal outcome on Monday. It also underscores their potential to challenge the top teams, especially with stars like Sarr and Eze shining.
Liverpool, despite the loss, showed glimpses of Slot's exciting style with their new-look lineup. The defeat serves as a reminder that penalties remain a vulnerability, but their attacking depth suggests a title challenge is on the cards.
As the Premier League kicks off next weekend, both sides will take positives from this Wembley showdown—a fittingly dramatic opener to what promises to be another enthralling season.
