Crystal Palace Suffer Conference League Setback in 2-0 Loss too AEK larnaca
LONDON – crystal Palace endured a disappointing night in the UEFA Europa Conference League, falling to a 2-0 defeat against AEK Larnaca at Selhurst Park on thursday. The result represents only a third home loss for Palace in 2024 and casts a shadow over their European ambitions.
The Cypriot side took the lead in the 15th minute through Rafael Lopes, who fired a low left-footed strike across Dimitar Mitov and into the far corner. AEK extended their advantage just three minutes later when Koïta slotted an angled shot beyond Mitov following a counterattack.
AEK’s dominance continued,with Filipe Relvas hitting the post and Niclas Eliasson adding a third goal in the 37th minute after capitalizing on a risky pass from Palace goalkeeper Mitov. razvan Marin then scored in the second half, with late goals from Luka jovic and dereck Kutesa completing a 6-0 rout.
“We certainly know it’s not acceptable… it was 6-0, but it might very well be more,” said Palace manager oliver Thelin. “Tonight, Athens exposed us and that’s what we have to learn from.So, sometimes, just hands up, they win, totally deserved.”
Despite the introduction of substitutes Wharton and Kamada, Palace struggled to find a breakthrough, with Eddie Nketiah missing a clear chance and Christantus Uche failing to connect with a Marc Guéhi cross. palace now face a challenging quick turnaround,with a Premier League fixture against league leaders Arsenal on Sunday.
