The second leg began with high intensity as Palace looked to defend their two-goal cushion from the first leg in Krakow. Early pressure paid off in the 25th minute when Adam Wharton unleashed a powerful long-range strike that Shakhtar goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk could only parry. Daniel Munoz was quickest to the rebound, and his angled effort deflected off Pedro Henrique and into the net to give the home side the lead.
Shakhtar Donetsk refused to go quietly and found an equalizer on the night in the 34th minute. Eguinaldo produced a moment of individual brilliance, turning sharply inside the box and looping a delicate finish into the top corner, leaving Dean Henderson with no chance. The goal briefly silenced the Selhurst Park crowd, but Palace nearly restored their lead before the break when Jean-Philippe Mateta saw a spectacular overhead kick strike the post.
The decisive moment arrived early in the second half. In the 52nd minute, Daichi Kamada drove through the midfield and released Tyrick Mitchell on the left wing. Mitchell delivered a low, inviting cross into the six-yard box, where Ismaila Sarr was perfectly positioned to poke the ball home. It was Sarr’s ninth goal of the competition, moving him to the top of the Conference League scoring charts this season.
As the final whistle blew, celebrations erupted across South London. The victory marks a significant milestone for manager Oliver Glasner, who has now guided the club to a European final in what is set to be his final season in charge. Having already secured the FA Cup and Community Shield during his tenure, Glasner now has the opportunity to sign off with a continental trophy.
The final will take place at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig, where Crystal Palace will face Rayo Vallecano. The Spanish club progressed to the final after defeating Strasbourg in the other semi-final. For Palace fans, the journey to Germany represents the pinnacle of the club's 120-year history and the chance to secure their first piece of European silverware.