Crystal Palace Stun Liverpool in Community Shield Shootout to Claim First-Ever Title

Crystal Palace have won the FA Community Shield for the first time in their history, defeating Premier League champions Liverpool 3-2 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw at Wembley Stadium. The victory marks a perfect start to the season for Oliver Glasner's side, who followed up their FA Cup triumph with another piece of silverware.

The match was an exhilarating affair from the outset, with Liverpool's new signings making an immediate impact. Debutant Hugo Ekitiké opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a neat finish after a one-two with fellow new arrival Florian Wirtz. However, the lead was short-lived as Jean-Philippe Mateta converted a penalty for Palace in the 17th minute, following a foul by Virgil van Dijk on Ismaila Sarr.

Liverpool regained the lead just four minutes later, in a bizarre but brilliant fashion. Jeremie Frimpong, another new Red, sent a cross into the box that looped over Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson and nestled into the far corner of the net. The match settled into a rhythm after the frantic opening, but Palace continued to pose a threat.

The Eagles' resilience paid off in the 77th minute when Ismaila Sarr, who had been a constant threat, equalized with a clinical finish after being played through by Adam Wharton. With no further goals in normal time, the season's curtain-raiser went straight to a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Dean Henderson emerged as the hero for Palace, saving penalties from Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott, while Mohamed Salah missed his attempt. For Palace, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr both scored before substitute Justin Devenny calmly slotted home the winning penalty to seal a memorable victory.

For Liverpool and their new manager Arne Slot, it was a tough start to the new campaign, but the performances of their new signings suggest a positive season ahead. However, for Crystal Palace, the victory at Wembley is a monumental achievement and a statement of intent for the upcoming season.