Brentford kept their hopes of qualifying for Europe alive after Dango Ouattara struck late to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace at the Gtech Stadium.
The forward rescued a point just minutes from full-time after Adam Wharton looked set to become Crystal Palace’s match-winner with the first goal of his Eagles career.
In a game full of momentum swings, Ismaila Sarr’s penalty initially put Palace ahead before Ouattara responded with an unusual equaliser that will undoubtedly feature among the season’s strangest goals.
However, Wharton’s long-range strike appeared to have settled matters before Brentford found one final response.
Adam Wharton finally breaks his Crystal Palace goal drought
One of the biggest talking points from the match arrived through Wharton.
The England midfielder had failed to score in any of his previous 93 appearances for Crystal Palace following his arrival from Blackburn more than two years ago.
That wait finally ended early in the second half.
Receiving possession around 20 yards from goal, Wharton stepped forward confidently before driving an effort beyond the goalkeeper to hand Palace the lead once again.
Having followed Crystal Palace’s development this season, Wharton’s influence has frequently extended beyond goals and assists. His ability to control possession and dictate tempo has often been central to Palace’s midfield structure.
The goal itself simply added another dimension to his game.
| Brentford vs Crystal Palace | Match stats |
|---|---|
| Final score | 2-2 |
| Brentford scorers | Dango Ouattara (2) |
| Crystal Palace scorers | Ismaila Sarr, Adam Wharton |
| Venue | Gtech Community Stadium |
source: match data – 16 May 2026
Ouattara keeps Brentford’s European hopes alive
Brentford refused to disappear from the contest despite repeatedly finding themselves chasing the game.
Ouattara’s first contribution came through a bizarre goal that quickly became one of the afternoon’s talking points.
However, it was his second that mattered most.
With time running out and European ambitions potentially slipping away, the winger produced a decisive late finish to ensure Brentford remained alive in the race for continental football.
From the final weeks of Brentford’s season, resilience has become a recurring feature of Thomas Frank’s side.
Even when performances have not been perfect, the team have repeatedly found ways to stay competitive deep into matches.
Brentford still dreaming of Europe
The point itself may ultimately prove important for Brentford as they continue pursuing what would represent a historic achievement.
The club have never qualified for European competition before, and every point now carries additional significance heading into the closing stage of the season.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, may feel frustrated after leading twice and coming within minutes of securing all three points.
However, Wharton’s breakthrough moment offers another encouraging sign for a young player whose influence continues growing.
Key Points
- Brentford and Crystal Palace drew 2-2
- Dango Ouattara scored twice for Brentford
- Adam Wharton scored his first Crystal Palace goal
- Ismaila Sarr opened the scoring from the penalty spot
- Brentford remain in contention for European qualification
What’s next
Brentford continue their push for a historic European place with little margin for error in the final weeks of the campaign.
Crystal Palace will focus on ending the season strongly while continuing the development of younger players who have increasingly influenced performances.
Can Brentford complete an historic European qualification push before the season ends?
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