Crystal Palace has advanced to the semi-finals of the Conference League, defeating Fiorentina 4-2 on aggregate despite losing the second leg 2-1 in Florence. The Eagles initially took the lead through Ismaila Sarr's early header, but the Italian side fought back with goals on either side of the injury substitutions of Adam Wharton and Maxence Lacroix. Although Fiorentina's second-leg display was an improvement over their first-leg performance, it was insufficient to prevent Palace from reaching their first European semi-final, where they will face Shakhtar Donetsk. Crystal Palace is the fifth English club to reach the Conference League last four, following in the footsteps of Chelsea, West Ham, Leicester, and Aston Villa.
In the second leg, Jaydee Canvot conceded a penalty, which Albert Gudmundsson converted to give Fiorentina a glimmer of hope. However, Palace held on to secure their spot in the semi-finals. The first leg of the semi-finals against Shakhtar Donetsk is scheduled for April 30, with the second leg taking place on May 7. Palace will have a second-leg advantage, hosting Shakhtar in the return leg at Selhurst Park.
Despite facing challenges throughout the season, including injuries and a heavy workload, Palace continues to make history in the Conference League. Manager Oliver Glasner expressed his pride in the team's resilience and determination, stating that they fully deserve their spot in the semi-finals.
Goalkeeper Dean Henderson also praised the team's performance, saying it was a phenomenal achievement for the club. With the semi-finals looming, Palace is one step closer to winning their first European trophy.