Crystal Palace have advanced to the Conference League semifinals after defeating Fiorentina 4-2 on aggregate, despite losing the second leg 2-1 in Florence. The Eagles' journey to the semifinals began with a 3-0 win at Selhurst Park, and although Fiorentina fought back in the second leg, Palace's early lead proved insurmountable. Ismaila Sarr's powerful header initially put the outcome beyond doubt, but Fiorentina's resilience was on full display as they scored on either side of Adam Wharton and Maxence Lacroix's early substitutions due to injury. Jaydee Canvot's foul on Rolando Mandragora led to a penalty, which Albert Gudmundsson calmly converted to give Fiorentina a glimmer of hope.
Cher Ndour's stunning long-range goal further narrowed the deficit, but Crystal Palace held on to secure their place in the semifinals, where they will face Shakhtar Donetsk. The Ukrainian side defeated AZ Alkmaar 5-2 over two legs to book their spot in the last four. Palace will have a second-leg advantage, hosting Shakhtar at Selhurst Park after traveling to Poland for the first leg.
The first leg is scheduled for April 30, with the second leg taking place on May 7. Crystal Palace's historic run in the Conference League continues, with the club now just two matches away from the final in Leipzig.
Despite a tumultuous season marked by injuries and setbacks, Palace remain in contention for their first European trophy. Manager Oliver Glasner expressed his pride in the team's resilience and determination, stating that they fully deserved their spot in the semifinals. Goalkeeper Dean Henderson echoed Glasner's sentiments, praising the team's ability to overcome adversity and expressing his excitement for the opportunity to deliver something special to the fans.