Crystal Palace's hopes for a positive UEFA Conference League campaign suffered a significant blow after a surprising 1-0 defeat at home to AEK Larnaca. Riad Bajic's goal secured the victory for the visitors, leaving Crystal Palace and their fans stunned at Selhurst Park.
The Eagles, playing their first-ever home match in the main draw of a major European competition, struggled to convert their chances despite dominating possession for much of the game. Oliver Glasner, the Crystal Palace manager, expressed his disappointment, stating that his team was punished for failing to capitalize on their opportunities.
Crystal Palace pressed and created several dangerous opportunities throughout the match but could not find the net. Jean-Philippe Mateta had some of the best chances but was unable to convert them. AEK Larnaca, on the other hand, proved clinical, taking the lead and maintaining their advantage to secure a memorable victory.
In the 25th minute, Crystal Palace made a double substitution, bringing on Kamada and Wharton for Yeremi Pino and Lerma, in an attempt to shake up the attack. Later, during the break, Romain Esse and Christantus Uche replaced Will Hughes and Ismaila Sarr. AEK Larnaca also made changes, with Jimmy and Karol Angelski replacing Riad Bajic and Pere Pons in the 35th minute.
The match saw several yellow cards issued. Mateta received a yellow card for a foul in midfield. In added time, Nketiah and Marcus Rohden were also cautioned for hard fouls.
AEK Larnaca lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Alomerovic in goal, Gnali, Milicevic, Roberge, and Saborit in defense, Pons and Ledes in midfield, Miramón, Rohden, and Chacon in support, and Bajic as the lone striker.
This defeat adds to the frustration surrounding Crystal Palace's participation in the Conference League, a competition they reportedly felt "unjustly" placed in. The loss represents an early setback to their ambitions of making a significant impact in the tournament.
Crystal Palace will need to regroup quickly as they look ahead to their upcoming Premier League fixtures, including a match at the Emirates Stadium and a home game at Selhurst Park. They also face Brighton & Hove Albion at Selhurst Park in November.
