In the sixth round of the Premier League, Crystal Palace defeated defending champions Liverpool 2-1 at Selhurst Park, becoming the only unbeaten team since the start of this season.
Liverpool’s perfect winning record in the league has now come to an end. In contrast, under the guidance of Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace have recorded three wins and three draws, collecting 12 points to sit second in the table, three points behind the Reds.
Sarr Scores from a Corner to Give Palace the Lead
In the 10th minute, Crystal Palace broke the deadlock. Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada delivered a corner, and after a scramble in the box, Malang Sarr found the net to put the hosts 1-0 ahead.
Soon after, both Ryan Gravenberch and Jean-Philippe Mateta saw their efforts strike the woodwork, while Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson made several crucial saves to keep his side in the game.
Alisson’s Heroics Keep Liverpool Alive
In the 11th minute, Cornet lost possession in midfield, allowing Yeremy Pino to surge into the box and attempt a shot while falling, only to be denied by Alisson.
In the 19th minute, Mohamed Salah’s free-kick was blocked by the wall, and Dean Henderson saved Gravenberch’s follow-up strike before the ball rebounded off the post.
First-Half Thriller as Liverpool Escapes Repeated Threats
In the 22nd minute, Daniel Muñoz ghosted into space and unleashed a shot, but Alisson reacted brilliantly again. Just a minute later, Mateta found himself one-on-one, yet Alisson pulled off another fine save.
In the 26th minute, Ibrahima Konaté struggled against Mateta’s strength and received a yellow card for pulling him back. By the 29th minute, Virgil van Dijk sent a long pass to Alexander Isak, who rounded Henderson, but his shot from a tight angle went wide.
In the 5th minute of first-half stoppage time, Palace came close once more when Mateta curled an effort towards the far corner, only for the ball to smash against the post. Liverpool were spared again.
Chiesa Levels It for Liverpool
In the 87th minute, Gravenberch sent a cross from the right. Richards’ headed clearance fell short, and Federico Chiesa pounced to fire home. VAR confirmed that Salah had not committed a handball during the aerial challenge, and the goal was allowed to stand. Liverpool equalised 1-1.
Nketiah’s Late Winner Seals the Victory
Just when Liverpool thought they had salvaged a point, Eddie Nketiah struck at the death. After a VAR review, the goal was confirmed. The referee’s final whistle sealed a 2-1 victory for Crystal Palace, sending Selhurst Park into wild celebrations.
Post-Match Reactions
After the match, Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted:
“The first half and the ending were disappointing. Credit must go to Crystal Palace. Even though the Community Shield was decided on penalties, this is not the first time we’ve lost to them. Since I took charge, we’ve played four times, one win each and two draws. That shows just how difficult it is to beat them.”
Palace Prove Their Strength Again
With resilient defending and decisive finishing at key moments, Crystal Palace once again proved they are capable of challenging the Premier League’s elite.
As the season unfolds, it remains to be seen whether they can maintain this momentum and stay competitive near the top of the table.
