Crystal Palace Held to Goalless Draw by Fredrikstad in Conference League Play-off

Selhurst Park, London – In their first European match, Crystal Palace and Norway’s Fredrikstad ended in a draw. Neither team scored in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League qualifying play-off on Thursday night. The encounter finished 0-0 before a passionate crowd at Selhurst Park.

Midfielder Eberechi Eze is set to make a big move this summer. Manager Oliver Glasner gave him a farewell start. He played alongside Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr in Palace’s attack. Dean Henderson led the defense, joined by Marc Guehi and Maxence Lacroix. Will Hughes and Adam Wharton kept things steady in midfield.

Fredrikstad, in their first competitive trip to England, played a deep game. They frustrated the hosts with solid defense. Palace held most of the ball and created some chances, but they couldn’t finish. Fredrikstad’s goalie, Martin Boersheim, made a number of key saves to keep the match tied.

Key Moments

• Eze’s curling effort from 20 yards was tipped over by Boersheim in the 32nd minute.
• Sarr threaded through a low cross in the 57th minute, but Mateta’s first-time effort was blocked on the line.
• In the 71st minute, Fredrikstad made a fast break. Oskar Öhlenschläeger hit a shot that went just wide.

Looking Ahead The return leg is on August 28 in Norway. Both coaches know that even one away goal could be crucial. Palace plans to use their home support to their advantage in the next match. Fredrikstad, however, aims to strengthen the defense they set up at Selhurst Park.

**UEFA Europa Conference League Qualifying Play-off First Leg** Crystal Palace vs. Fredrikstad FK Score: 0–0 Location: Selhurst Park Date: 21 August 2025 Referee: Anastasios Papapetrou