Crystal Palace secured a 3-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of their Europa Conference League semi-final, handing Glasner's side a commanding lead to return to south London.

Ismaïla Sarr opened the scoring in the first 21 seconds with a neat finish after a Mateta pass, making him joint top scorer in the competition and tying the record for the fastest goal. Shakhtar responded from a set-piece, with Oleh Ocheretko scoring from a corner, but Palace's defensive resilience and counter-attacking threat kept the pressure on. Jorgen Strand Larsen netted a composed dinker from close range, securing the win for Palace.

Oliver Glasner praised his team's performance, highlighting their stick-to-itiveness and execution of the counter-attacking plan. He acknowledged Shakhtar's threats but emphasized Palace's better chances, with xG values favoring Palace (1.06-2.31 to Shakhtar's 2.31). The result puts Palace as overwhelming favorites to reach the final in Leipzig on May 27, with Glasner likely aiming to conclude his tenure on a high note.

Crystal Palace now face Bournemouth in the Premier League before the return leg at Selhurst Park, where they must perform even better to reach the final.