Crystal Palace shocked Premier League champions Liverpool by winning the 2025 FA Community Shield on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw at Wembley Stadium, securing the title of England’s champion of champions.
This victory adds to Palace’s historic FA Cup triumph earlier this year, marking their second major trophy in club history.
The match saw end-to-end action and intense competition, with Liverpool taking an early lead through debutant Hugo Ekitike in the 4th minute, brilliantly assisted by new signing Florian Wirtz. Palace responded when Virgil van Dijk fouled Ismaïla Sarr in the box, allowing Jean-Philippe Mateta to convert the penalty in the 17th minute. Liverpool regained the advantage shortly after with a stunning cross by Jeremie Frimpong that unexpectedly looped into the net.
Palace fought back yet again to equalise late in the game with a powerful strike by Ismaïla Sarr in the 77th minute, forcing the match into a tense penalty shootout.
The shootout proved decisive as Palace’s goalkeeper Dean Henderson rose to the occasion, saving penalties from Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah missed the opener by firing over the bar, increasing pressure on the Reds. Substitute Justin Devenny sealed the victory for Palace by confidently converting the winning penalty, sparking wild celebrations among fans and players alike.
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Palace manager Oliver Glasner praised his squad’s resilience and performance, highlighting the importance of matching Liverpool’s quality over the 90 minutes. For Liverpool, despite the impressive attacking displays from new signings and an early lead, defensive lapses and penalty shootout misses meant the Community Shield slipped away just as the new season commences.
This triumph enhances Crystal Palace’s stature in English football, following their sensational 2025 FA Cup win, and cements their reputation as formidable underdogs capable of toppling the league’s elite. Liverpool, meanwhile, will look to regroup swiftly as they prepare for a challenging campaign with high expectations following a record transfer spree.
