Crystal Palace Defeat Shakhtar 3-1 in Conference League Semi-Final First Leg -

Crystal Palace took a major step toward the final of the UEFA Europa Conference League after a convincing 3-1 away victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of their semi-final tie on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

The Premier League side made an explosive start in Krakow, Poland, scoring within the opening minute. Jean-Philippe Mateta combined well with Yeremy Pino before setting up Ismaïla Sarr, who finished clinically to give Palace an early advantage.

Shakhtar responded strongly and gradually grew into the game, eventually finding an equaliser early in the second half through Oleh Ocheretko after a defensive lapse from a set piece.

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However, the visitors regained control as the match progressed. Daichi Kamada restored Palace’s lead following sustained pressure, finishing a loose ball inside the box after a period of dominance.

The decisive moment came late in the game when substitute Jørgen Strand Larsen added a third goal on the counter-attack, calmly finishing past the Shakhtar goalkeeper to put his side in a commanding position ahead of the second leg.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner praised his team’s performance but urged caution, stressing that the tie is not yet over.
Despite showing resilience and determination, Shakhtar struggled to match Palace’s attacking depth, particularly in the closing stages.

With this result, Crystal Palace head into the second leg as strong favourites to reach the final, where they will face either Rayo Vallecano or RC Strasbourg in Leipzig on May 27.