Crystal Palace has lifted the FA Community Shield trophy after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Wembley Stadium was decided by a penalty shootout. The match, which served as the curtain-raiser for the new domestic season, saw Palace emerge victorious with a 3-2 win on penalties.
Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, took an early lead through a goal from new signing Hugo Ekitiké in the fourth minute. However, Crystal Palace, the FA Cup winners, responded quickly, with Jean-Philippe Mateta converting a penalty in the 17th minute. The Reds regained the lead before half-time, but a late equalizer from Sarr for Crystal Palace sent the match to a tense penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Palace held their nerve, with Justin Devenny scoring the decisive spot-kick. For Liverpool, key players including Mohamed Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, and Harvey Elliott failed to convert their penalties, ultimately costing them the title. The result marks a triumphant start to the season for Palace and a disappointing one for Liverpool, who will now turn their attention to their Premier League opener against AFC Bournemouth.
