FA Community Shield Recap: Palace pulls off the upset and gets their 2025 season off to a positive start

Despite Liverpool being significant favourites to win this match, Crystal Palace forced the game all the way to penalties, where they would win on the final kick of the match. 

(Image Credit to Getty Images)

The 2025 FA Community Shield was Crystal Palace’s first-ever appearance in the game. 

They took full advantage of it, forcing Liverpool into extra time as a result of a 2-2 scoreline, before winning the match in penalties by a scoreline of 3-2. 

Despite the loss, new additions play a huge role for the Reds

While Liverpool ended up losing the match, there were some positives for the Reds in the game. One such positive was the immediate impact provided by the likes of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Hugo Ekitike, all of whom arrived at the club over the course of the summer break. 

They got the action started early in the match when Florian Wirtz found Hugo Ekitike for the game’s opening goal in the fourth minute of play. 

Then, in the 20th minute and in what was a fitting tribute for the late Diogo Jota, Jeremie Frimpong scored from a sharp angle to give Liverpool the advantage once again after Jean-Philippe Mateta levelled the score from the spot. 

Dean Henderson steps up, and Palace’s attack helps get the job done

As predicted, Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson would play a huge role in the outcome of the Community Shield. He would make several key stops to keep the Reds from pulling away, while also saving two of the penalties taken during the shootout (the third missed Liverpool penalty was the first one taken, which Mohamed Salah put over the bar). 

Elsewhere, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr were the goal scorers for Crystal Palace, while Justin Devenny had a good game coming off the bench; he would score the winning penalty while just missing the target late in second-half stoppage time. 

Where do the two sides go after the Community Shield?

Despite the loss, Liverpool’s revamped attack looked good throughout the match, creating chances and putting the pressure on Palace. While the Liverpool backline still needs work, it’s clear that Liverpool is in a position where they can, if needed, outscore their opposition even if the defence is struggling. 

Their first chance at redemption will come on Friday, when they host Bournemouth to open the 2025-26 Premier League season. 

As for Crystal Palace, they will be able to celebrate regardless of the result of tomorrow’s ruling on whether they will be able to play in the Europa League or the Conference League due to club ownership breaches. 

In terms of Premier League play, the Eagles will open their 2025-26 domestic season on the road against Chelsea on Sunday. 

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Article written by Noah Guttman