Crystal Palace continued their remarkable first European campaign by defeating Zrinjski to reach the last 16 of the Conference League. Competing in major European competition for the first time in club history, the Eagles showed composure and quality at Selhurst Park to seal a 3 1 aggregate victory.
After drawing 1 1 in Bosnia Herzegovina last week, Palace knew a focused home performance would be enough to progress. Oliver Glasner’s side delivered exactly that, controlling possession and limiting their opponents to almost no clear chances.
The breakthrough arrived in the 36th minute. Adam Wharton produced an excellent free kick from near the left touchline, delivering a precise ball into the box. Maxence Lacroix rose highest and powered a header home from close range, sending the home crowd into celebration.
Palace continued to press for a second goal. Evann Guessand tested the goalkeeper with a low effort, while Ismaila Sarr and Jorgen Strand Larsen both threatened in attacking phases. Despite their dominance, the narrow scoreline kept the tie alive heading into the final moments.
Zrinjski rarely troubled Dean Henderson in goal. The Palace goalkeeper was largely untested, with the visitors struggling to break through a disciplined defensive line. Their best chance came late in stoppage time when Tomi Juric headed wide, but by then the outcome felt inevitable.
Guessand finally wrapped up the victory in the second minute of added time. He drove a hard low shot into the net to secure a 2 0 win on the night and confirm Palace’s place in the next round.
The result adds another chapter to a dramatic season for the London club. After lifting the FA Cup in 2024 25 and winning the Community Shield, Palace have experienced turbulence both on and off the pitch. Managerial uncertainty, squad changes, and fixture congestion have tested the group, yet their European journey continues.
Currently sitting mid table in the Premier League, Palace have balanced domestic stability with continental ambition. The Conference League now presents an opportunity to write further history and potentially claim their first European trophy.
Next up, Palace will face either German side Mainz or Cypriot club Larnaca in a two legged tie. Neither opponent is likely to intimidate a squad that has already shown resilience throughout a demanding campaign.
For now, Selhurst Park can dream. In their debut European season, the Eagles remain in flight and firmly in contention for silverware.
