Crystal Palace’s quest for automatic qualification in the 2025-26 UEFA Europa Conference League took a twist at Selhurst Park on Thursday, December 18, 2025, as the Eagles were held to a 2-2 draw by Finnish champions KuPS Kuopio — a result that now sends them into the play-off round in February instead of straight into the last-16 stage. Sky Sports+1
From the moment the whistle blew, this match was a rollercoaster. Christantus Uche, the Nigerian forward, struck early with a sublime goal in the 5th minute, curling an absolutely beautiful shot into the far corner to put Palace ahead and spark dreams of a direct knockout spot. TNT Sports
But KuPS weren’t phased. Just after the break, they turned the game around in quick succession — Piotr Parzyszek pulled them level in the 50th minute, and Ibrahim Cissé fired them ahead just three minutes later with a well-taken finish. Sky Sports
The drama didn’t stop there. KuPS were reduced to ten men in the 73rd minute when Clinton Antwi received a straight red card for a reckless challenge, giving Palace a golden opportunity to snatch victory. TNT Sports
And snatch it they did — Justin Devenny rose highest to head in the equaliser in the 76th minute, leveling the score at 2-2 and setting up a tense finale. Sports Mole
Yet despite heavy pressure and several chances, Palace couldn’t find the winner. The draw means Crystal Palace finish 10th in the Conference League group phase, forcing them into a play-off tie in February instead of securing automatic progression to the last 16. The Guardian+1
Manager Oliver Glasner rotated his squad heavily due to a packed fixture list, handing first-team debuts to a few teenagers — a bold move that showcased some bright young talent but perhaps cost Palace the edge they needed. The Guardian
For KuPS, the point is massive. The Finnish side — whose domestic season ended earlier — will now also head into the play-offs, a historic achievement for the club against top-flight English opposition. Talksport
In short — Palace will battle on in Europe, but didn’t get the knockout security they wanted; KuPS left London proud and punching above their weight.