Oliver Glasner praised his Crystal Palace players after they romped to a 3-0 win over Fiorentina in the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarter-final. A memorable night for the Eagles saw them take a giant step towards the semi-finals.
Jean-Philippe Mateta opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after Evann Guessand was brought down in the box. The French striker received a massive “boom” from fans, and he admitted after the game that he had dreamt of that moment for many nights.
Tyrick Mitchell came up with a rare goal in the 31st minute, arriving at the back post to capitalise on a loose ball. The left-back chose the biggest game of his side’s season thus far to find the back of the net for only the seventh time in Eagles colours.
Fiorentina rarely threatened but did give Dean Henderson a scare when they hit the crossbar in the second half. But the Italians were made to pay for not getting themselves back into the game.
Ismaila Sarr’s red-hot form continued when he headed home from close range in the 90th minute. It means Palace head to Florence next Thursday (April 16th) with the tie firmly in their hands.
Glasner’s Thoughts
Palace’s win means Glasner’s bid to end his reign by delivering a European trophy is becoming a real possibility. The Austrian oversaw the stunning FA Cup triumph last season and will want to leave the South Londoners as a Conference League winner.
Glasner spoke to TNT Sportsafter the game and he hailed his players. He was asked if he couldn’t ask for more than three goals and a clean sheet:
“Yes, but what was more important was the performance today, especially the first half, and let’s say the last 20-25 minutes. We had a really fantastic performance, with great power, really playing well, making pressure and always attacking the box.”
“I think the second goal was like this with Danny Munoz with a ball, this was the plan, we knew that they were very compact but also really going in behind and creating so many chances, it was really great to see but also on the other side we also have seen how good Fiorentina is.”
“The first step is made but we have to make the second in Florence next week.”
“The first step is made, we have to make the second in Florence next week”
Oliver Glasner full of praise for his side after their 3-0 win tonight 🙌
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 9, 2026
Glasner did admit he became frustrated at times, particularly with ball losses. But he was really pleased with the display against a good Italian team.
Palace will switch their focus to Premier League football this weekend when they host Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on Sunday. The mood is high, but Glasner might opt to rest one or two players ahead of the trip to Artemio Franchi Stadium.
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