The 2025 FA Community Shield will go down as one of the most dramatic curtain-raisers in recent memory, as Crystal Palace overcame Liverpool 3–2 on penalties after a gripping 2–2 draw at Wembley. It was a night of debut brilliance, late drama, and historic achievement for the South London side, who lifted the trophy for the very first time.
ALSO READ: 3 Dead in Early Morning Accident at Tsopoli on Accra–Aflao Road
A Blistering Start
Liverpool wasted no time making their presence felt. Just four minutes into the match, new signing Hugo Ekitike marked his debut with a composed finish, slotting the ball past Dean Henderson to ignite the Reds’ faithful. The early goal hinted at a dominant performance from Jürgen Klopp’s men.
However, Palace buoyed by their FA Cup triumph just three months ago—had other plans. In the 17th minute, they were handed a lifeline when Virgil van Dijk fouled Ismaila Sarr inside the box. Jean-Philippe Mateta made no mistake from the spot, sending Alisson Becker the wrong way to level the score.
Liverpool’s summer signings were in the spotlight, and Jeremie Frimpong added his name to the headlines in the 21st minute. His curling cross from the right flank evaded everyone, kissed the inside of the post, and nestled into the net—restoring Liverpool’s lead in style.
The first half ended with Liverpool holding a 2–1 advantage, but the match was far from over.
Palace Fights Back
As the second half progressed, Oliver Glasner’s men grew in confidence. Liverpool continued to threaten, with Florian Wirtz pulling the strings in midfield, but a lapse in concentration in the 77th minute proved costly. A misplaced pass by Cody Gakpo was pounced upon by Ismaila Sarr, who rifled a shot past Alisson to bring the game level once more.
With neither side able to find a winner in regulation time, the match headed to a nerve-shredding penalty shootout.
The Penalty Drama
Liverpool’s usually reliable Mohamed Salah struck the post with his opening penalty, a miss that set the tone for the Reds. Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson turned into the hero of the night, producing brilliant saves to deny Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott.
Palace, on the other hand, kept their composure. After successful conversions from Mateta, Sarr, and Eberechi Eze, it was Justin Devenny who stepped up and sealed the victory—sparking wild celebrations among the Palace supporters.
A Night of Firsts
For Crystal Palace, this was more than just a trophy—it was history. This marked:
-
Their first-ever Community Shield victory
-
A second Wembley trophy in just three months (following their FA Cup win in May)
-
Another statement under Oliver Glasner, proving that the Eagles are no longer just Premier League survivors—they are silverware contenders.
Liverpool’s Bittersweet Evening
Liverpool will take some positives from the game, particularly the impressive performances from their summer recruits, Ekitike, Wirtz, and Frimpong. However, the defeat means they miss out on the chance to start the 2025–26 season with silverware.
The match also carried emotional weight, with a touching tribute to the late Diogo Jota before kickoff—a moment that united fans of both clubs in remembrance.
ALSO READ: President in Deep Mourning After Military Helicopter Tragedy Claims Eight Lives
What This Means for the Season Ahead
-
For Crystal Palace: This win cements their status as a team capable of upsetting the traditional elite. The confidence gained from back-to-back Wembley wins could fuel another memorable season.
-
For Liverpool: While the defeat will sting, the attacking promise shown suggests they will still be serious challengers across competitions.
Final Score:
Liverpool 2–2 Crystal Palace
(Crystal Palace win 3–2 on penalties)
Goal Scorers:
-
Liverpool: Hugo Ekitike (4′), Jeremie Frimpong (21′)
-
Crystal Palace: Jean-Philippe Mateta (17′ pen), Ismaila Sarr (77′)
Penalty Shootout: CRY 3 : 2 LIV
This year’s Community Shield was everything football fans could hope for. A fast start, a fightback, stunning goals, and a dramatic finish. For Crystal Palace, it was a crowning moment in their history. For Liverpool, it was a reminder that in football, even the strongest starts can be undone in the blink of an eye.
