Draw between Crystal Palace and Liverpool at the start of the Premier League, resolved in a thrilling penalty shootout: Victory for Crystal Palace in an exciting season opener
Crystal Palace Clinch 2025 FA Community Shield in Thrilling Penalty Shootout
In a fiery and intense match, Crystal Palace emerged victorious in the 2025 FA Community Shield, defeating Liverpool 3-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw. The decisive penalty was scored by Justin Devenny, securing Palace's first-ever Community Shield trophy.
The match, played at a proper tempo and in a lively atmosphere, saw goals from both teams in the 90 minutes. Liverpool's goals came from Hugo Ekitiké (on his competitive debut) and Jeremie Frimpong, while Crystal Palace responded with efforts from Jean-Philippe Mateta (penalty) and Ismaïla Sarr.
The second half belonged to Palace, who rallied strongly. Wilfried Zaha's replacement, Eze, had a shot smartly saved at the near post by Alisson, as Glasner's men forced Liverpool to dig in. Sarr then raced on to fire home off the post for Palace's second equaliser in the 77th minute.
The penalty shootout proved to be the deciding factor. Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson made crucial saves, stopping penalties from Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott. Devenny, remaining calm under pressure, scored the winning penalty, powering into the top corner to clinch the win.
Key details of the match included Liverpool's four marquee summer signings all featuring in the starting line-up. Wreaths were laid in tribute to Diogo Jota before the match, but the planned silence for the tragic Portuguese forward was cut short due to a few disrespectful fans in the Palace end. Mo Salah, Mac Allister, and Elliott missed penalties for Liverpool.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Crystal Palace, who can now look forward to the new season with renewed optimism. For Liverpool, it serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done as they prepare to defend their Premier League title.
[1] BBC Sport. (2025). Crystal Palace beat Liverpool on penalties to win Community Shield. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/61235983
[2] Sky Sports. (2025). Crystal Palace beat Liverpool on penalties to win Community Shield. [online] Available at: https://www.skysports.com/football/community-shield/news/36836/12210688/community-shield-2025-crystal-palace-beat-liverpool-on-penalties-to-win-community-shield
- Excited Palace fans will be looking forward to the new season, as their team achieved a significant milestone by winning the FA Community Shield, a renowned tournament in European-leagues, against Liverpool.
- Despite Liverpool's failure to hold on to the Community Shield trophy, devotees of the Premier League champions can take solace in the fact that their team's four marquee signings made their debut in the season-opening match.
