By Irom Daniel
Crystal Palace shocked Liverpool to win the 2025 Community Shield after a dramatic penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
The game ended 2-2 in regulation time before Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson emerged as the hero, saving two spot-kicks to seal a famous 3-2 shootout victory for the Eagles.
Liverpool struck first through Hugo Ekitike in the 4th minute, but Palace responded via a Jean-Philippe Mateta penalty in the 17th minute. The Reds regained their lead in the 21st minute through Jeremie Frimpong, only for Ismaila Sarr to level the score in the 77th minute and send the match to penalties.
In the shootout, Palace kept their composure as Justin Devenny scored the decisive kick. Liverpool faltered, with Mohamed Salah firing over the bar and both Harvey Elliott and Alexis Mac Allister denied by Henderson.
The win marks Palace’s second piece of silverware in quick succession after lifting the FA Cup last season, underlining their rapid rise under manager Oliver Glasner.
Crystal Palace fans flooded social media to celebrate what many called a “new era” for the club. “We’re no longer underdogs, we’re contenders,” one supporter posted on X.
Liverpool fans, however, expressed frustration over missed chances and defensive errors. “Same problems, new season,” wrote another fan, while others called for urgent tactical adjustments from manager Arne Slot.
Pundit Gary Neville described Palace’s performance as “disciplined and fearless,” while former Liverpool striker Michael Owen said the Reds “should have put the game to bed long before penalties.”
Palace will now look to carry their momentum into the Premier League season, while Liverpool aim to bounce back quickly from the defeat.
