Crystal Palace have etched a new chapter in their history by defeating Premier League champions Liverpool in the 2025 FA Community Shield at Wembley. In a game full of drama, emotions, and unexpected turns, the Eagles triumphed 3-2 on penalties after a gripping 2-2 draw in regular time.
A Historic Night for Palace
This was Palace’s first-ever appearance in the Community Shield, but they showed no sign of being overawed by the occasion. Fresh from their remarkable FA Cup triumph over Manchester City just three months ago, Roy Hodgson’s side once again proved they can compete with England’s very best.
The match began at a frantic pace, with Liverpool’s record summer spending already on display. Hugo Ekitike, signed for £69 million from Eintracht Frankfurt, wasted no time making an impact, latching onto a precise Florian Wirtz pass to score in just the fourth minute.
Palace Fight Back
Despite the early setback, Palace responded with courage and purpose. Jean-Philippe Mateta missed one golden chance, but moments later, Ismaila Sarr’s darting run into the box drew a foul from Virgil van Dijk. Mateta made no mistake from the penalty spot, sending Alisson Becker the wrong way to level the score.
Liverpool regained the lead when Jeremie Frimpong’s chipped cross found the far corner, catching Dean Henderson off guard. But the Reds’ defensive frailties were exposed once again as Sarr raced onto an Adam Wharton through ball and calmly slotted home for his fourth goal in just seven games against Liverpool.
Penalty Drama at Wembley
With no extra time in the Community Shield, the game went straight to penalties. What followed was a shootout to remember — for Palace fans, at least. Mohamed Salah blazed his effort over the bar, while Dean Henderson produced two superb saves to deny Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott.
Palace’s Justin Devenny then stepped up for the decisive kick, blasting it high past Alisson to seal a famous win. Henderson’s heroics and Palace’s composure under pressure made the difference on the night.
A Bitter-Sweet Night for Liverpool
For Liverpool, the match carried deep emotional significance following the tragic death of forward Diogo Jota in a car accident earlier this summer. The team wore a “Forever 20” emblem in his honor, and fans chanted his name in the 20th minute. While the tribute was heartfelt, the result will raise questions about whether Arne Slot’s newly assembled squad has the right balance heading into the Premier League season.
What This Win Means for Palace
This victory confirms that Crystal Palace are no longer just battling for survival in the top flight. With the FA Cup already in their cabinet and now the Community Shield, they have proven they can stand toe-to-toe with the country’s most dominant clubs.
As the new Premier League season begins, both teams will take different lessons from this game. For Liverpool, it’s a reminder that titles are never won on paper. For Palace, it’s proof that their rise in English football is far from over.
Final Score: Crystal Palace 2-2 Liverpool (Palace win 3-2 on penalties)
Man of the Match: Dean Henderson – two penalty saves and unshakable composure.