Palace Draw in Norway, Romp into Conference League Group Stage

Crystal Palace have secured their first-ever place in the group stage of a major European competition after battling to a goalless draw against Fredrikstad in Norway, a result that was just enough to send them through to the UEFA Europa Conference League on a 1–0 aggregate.

The decisive moment of the tie had come in the first leg at Selhurst Park, when Jean-Philippe Mateta scored his maiden European goal to hand Palace a slender lead. In the return leg, Oliver Glasner’s side were made to work hard on an artificial pitch that disrupted their usual rhythm, but they held firm to protect their advantage.

Fredrikstad failed to register a single shot on target as the Eagles showed resilience and discipline to see out the result.

The draw not only secured progress but also extended Palace’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 13 matches, equalling a club record and underlining the team’s growing confidence under Glasner.

Speaking after the match, the Austrian manager hailed the achievement as historic for the south London club. “It’s a huge moment for Crystal Palace. For the first time, this club is part of the group stage of a European competition, and I’m very proud of the players and the supporters who have been behind us all the way,” he said.

For the Palace faithful who made the journey to Norway, the night will be remembered less for its footballing spectacle and more for its significance.

Years of top-flight survival and gradual progress have culminated in this breakthrough on the European stage.

Attention now turns to Friday’s draw, where Palace will discover their group-stage opponents.

Matches are set to begin on October 2, promising more memorable nights ahead at Selhurst Park and abroad.

The achievement marks a milestone in the club’s history, and while the performance in Norway may not have been flashy, it carried the grit and determination needed to open a new chapter for Crystal Palace in Europe.