Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner hailed his side’s character and insisted his players must “enjoy these moments” after they stunned Liverpool 2-1 in a dramatic Premier League encounter at Selhurst Park.
Goals from Ismaïla Sarr and Edward Nketiah secured a statement win for Palace, who showed resilience after Federico Chiesa’s 87th-minute equaliser appeared to have salvaged a point for the visitors. Nketiah’s winner, deep into stoppage time, sparked wild celebrations in south London as Palace continued their impressive start under Glasner.
The Austrian coach praised both his starters and substitutes, highlighting the unity within the squad. “We deserved the win,” Glasner told BBC Match of the Day. “We played an amazing first half and had a deserved lead. To overcome the pressure of Liverpool, they deserved an equaliser but I’m delighted at the reaction of our team.”
Oliver Glasner praises his players’ bravery
Glasner emphasised the collective effort and the attacking intent that has defined Palace’s recent performances.
“You have to enjoy these moments otherwise you have to ask why you are doing it.” — Oliver Glasner, BBC MOTD
“Every player is so important, all the subs came on to help us to win the game. I am really proud of the performance. We talk about our personality, we always go for the win. Everybody who is close to Crystal Palace got their reward today. The fans will have a great Saturday evening, as will the whole club,” Glasner said.
Match stats: Palace edge clinical battle
| Stat | Crystal Palace | Liverpool |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 28% | 72% |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 2.45 | 2.25 |
| Total Shots | 16 | 20 |
| Shots on Target | 7 | 4 |
| Big Chances | 7 | 6 |
| Goalkeeper Saves | 3 | 5 |
| Hit Woodwork | 1 | 1 |
| Shots off Target | 7 | 11 |
| Blocked Shots | 2 | 5 |
source: sofascore match data – 27 September 2025
Despite enjoying just 28% possession, Palace carved out seven big chances and proved more efficient in front of goal. Liverpool’s dominance of the ball did not translate into enough cutting edge, with Chiesa’s late strike their only breakthrough before Nketiah’s decisive moment.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes the result encapsulates Palace’s growing maturity under Glasner. “Palace didn’t panic when Liverpool equalised. The structure was there, the substitutions worked, and the late winner showed belief. This is a side that is becoming comfortable in big moments.”
He added: “Liverpool had the majority of possession but Palace carried the greater threat with fewer opportunities. Glasner’s demand for his players to enjoy these moments reflects a team thriving under pressure and playing with confidence.”
Key insights
- Edward Nketiah scored the winner in the 97th minute to seal Palace’s 2-1 win.
- Ismaïla Sarr opened the scoring in the 9th minute before Federico Chiesa equalised late on.
- Palace created more big chances (7) despite only 28% possession.
- Glasner says he is “proud” of his players and urges them to enjoy the win.
- Liverpool’s defeat raises fresh questions about consistency in big away games.
What’s next for Palace and Liverpool?
Crystal Palace will look to build on this momentum as they target back-to-back wins in the Premier League. With their attacking combinations sharpening and Glasner’s philosophy taking root, they look capable of pushing for European places again.
Liverpool, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. Despite controlling possession, their lack of ruthlessness proved costly. With defensive frailties still exposed, manager Arne Slot will demand an immediate reaction in their next fixture to keep pace with league leaders.
👉 Can Oliver Glasner turn Palace into genuine European contenders after this statement victory over Liverpool?
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