Wembley served up another unforgettable showcase today as Crystal Palace claimed the Community Shield against Liverpool, prevailing 3–2 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a thrilling 2–2 draw. It was a game of tactical ingenuity, high-profile debuts, and finishing drama.

First Half — Liverpool’s Fluid Attack vs Palace’s Structured Response

Liverpool deployed a 3-5-2, with Hugo Ekitike as the central striker flanked by energetic full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez who alternated between width and inside channels. Ekitike linked up superbly with Florian Wirtz—this combination unlocked Palace’s defence early on and resulted in the opener in just the 4th minute.

Crystal Palace defended in flexible shapes—alternating between 4-2-1-3 and 3-5-2—yet pressed intelligently. Mitchell and Muñoz tucked in when under pressure, while Eze occupied the space between the lines and Mateta dropped as a false nine to test the centre-backs.

Palace responded quickly. A foul on Sarr by Van Dijk earned a penalty, which Mateta calmly dispatched in the 17th minute to restore parity.

Liverpool didn’t hesitate. Frimpong surged forward from right-back, his cross floating over Henderson to nestle in the net for 2–1 in the 21st minute.

Second Half — Palace Strikes Back

Liverpool ramped up their attack, shifting to an aggressive 4-2-4. Frimpong and Gakpo bombarded the wings, supplying crosses for central support like Ekitike and Wirtz. However, Palace remained disciplined—packing the box with 6–8 defenders when under siege.

A moment of defensive misread from Van Dijk allowed Sarr the chance to break through with clinical timing in the 77th minute—he slotted under pressure to equalise 2–2.

Penalty Shootout — Henderson the Hero

Dean Henderson delivered another Wembley masterclass, saving penalties from Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott. Mohamed Salah had already missed Liverpool’s first kick, while Palace’s Justin Devenny remained composed to fire in the decisive spot-kick. The Eagles lifted their first-ever Community Shield in style.

Tactical Highlights at a Glance

Liverpool

• Full-backs Frimpong and Kerkez provided width and attacking thrust.
• Precise interchanges between Ekitike and Wirtz created Liverpool’s best openings.
• Midfield rotations and wide switchplays stretched Palace’s defensive lines.
• Shift to 4-2-4 aimed to overload Palace’s rearguard but ultimately was met with resilience.

Crystal Palace

• Maintained defensive structure under pressure, shifting compact formations.
• Utilised wide runners—particularly Munoz—to stretch play and expose gaps.
• Counterattacks, particularly through Sarr, capitalised on Liverpool’s defensive shifts.

Players of the Match

Crystal Palace

Dean Henderson – A masterclass in composure and preparation. His two crucial saves turned the tide, confirming his pedigree in high-pressure shootout situations.

Liverpool

Hugo Ekitike – Constantly on the move, Ekitike’s intelligent runs and link-up play unsettled Palace’s back line throughout. Took his early chance with composure to give Liverpool the lead and was a focal point for the Reds’ attacking phases. Even as Palace tightened defensively, his work rate and positioning continued to create opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s attacking verve, driven by Ekitike, Wirtz, Frimpong, and Kerkez, showed glimpses of their potential under Arne Slot—dynamic, proactive, and creative. Yet Palace’s disciplined structure, tactical adaptability, and Henderson’s heroics proved the difference.

It wasn’t just a curtain-raiser; it was a statement. Liverpool have star quality, but Palace have belief—and today, that made all the difference.