Crystal Palace capture UEFA Conference League to claim first European honour

The triumph in Leipzig marks the culmination of a remarkable two-year period for the Eagles under Oliver Glasner. The Austrian manager led Palace to their first major honour when they beat Manchester City in last season's FA Cup final, and they have now added a continental success.

In the intervening period, Palace also secured the Community Shield, defeating Liverpool on penalties.

Glasner is expected to depart the club at the end of the season when his contract expires, amid reports of dissatisfaction and frustration during the middle of the campaign concerning Palace's transfer dealings.

Palace were originally slated to compete in the Europa League, Europe's secondary competition. However, they were relegated to the Conference League due to regulatory breaches, as former co-owner John Textor held stakes in both Palace and Lyon, the latter also having qualified for the same tournament.

As a consequence of their Conference League triumph, they will now take part in the Europa League during the 2026/27 season.

Palace ended the league phase outside the top eight and were required to play an additional match in a knockout play-off. On their path to the final, they overcame Zrinjski Mostar, AEK Larnaca, Fiorentina and Shakhtar Donetsk.

Palace forward Ismaila Sarr is the competition's leading goalscorer with nine goals in 13 appearances, with no other teammate netting more than twice.

Daichi Kamada has provided four assists, the second-highest tally in the tournament.