Crystal Palace Overcome Fiorentina to Advance to Conference League Semi-Finals

Crystal Palace secured a spot in the Conference League semi-finals, defeating Fiorentina 4-2 on aggregate despite losing the second leg 2-1. The Eagles took an early lead with Ismaila Sarr's header, but Fiorentina fought back with goals on either side of injuries to Adam Wharton and Maxence Lacroix. Palace's aggregate lead from their 3-0 first-leg win ultimately proved decisive. They will face Shakhtar Donetsk in the semi-finals, with the first leg scheduled for April 30 and the return leg on May 7. Palace became the fifth English club to reach the Conference League last four. Sarr was named Player of the Match. The victory marked a significant milestone for the club, which was not initially supposed to compete in the Conference League due to UEFA ownership rules. Manager Oliver Glasner expressed pride in his team's resilience and determination, stating that they 'deserved to play the semi-final' over the two legs. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson said the achievement was 'unbelievable' for the club and that the team is focused on delivering something special for the fans. Palace will look to build momentum heading into the semi-finals, with the first leg against Shakhtar Donetsk to be played in Poland.