Slot Admits Palace Deserved Win Over Liverpool
Liverpool manager Arne Slot conceded that Crystal Palace deservedly won 2-1, ending the Premier League champions' perfect start to the season at Selhurst Park.
“One player was too offensively minded in that moment, which led to them scoring the winner and us losing the game...”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot conceded that Crystal Palace deservedly won 2-1 against his team, ending Liverpool's perfect start to the season at Selhurst Park. Slot's men had previously won all seven of their Premier League, Champions League, and League Cup games since losing to Palace in the Community Shield on penalties last month.
The match saw Palace dominate the first half, with Ismaila Sarr scoring in the ninth minute, but Liverpool's Alisson Becker made several crucial saves to keep the scoreline respectable. Federico Chiesa leveled the game for Liverpool with a late goal, but Eddie Nketiah sealed the win for Palace with a stoppage-time strike.
Slot praised Palace's performance, saying, “If one team deserved to win today, it was Palace. Credit to Palace - with the Community Shield, it's not the first time we've lost to them. They deserved to be two or three up in the first half.” He also expressed frustration with his team's defending, particularly on the winning goal, stating, “We can only blame ourselves for defending the way we did.”
Defeat. #CRYLIV pic.twitter.com/tjfHePj1Ll
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 27, 2025
The loss marks a significant result for Palace, who remain unbeaten in 18 games across all competitions, stretching back to before their FA Cup win last season. Meanwhile, Liverpool's record-breaking spend of nearly £450 million in the transfer market hasn't yielded the desired results yet, with the team relying heavily on late goals to rescue matches.
Liverpool's high-spending overhaul hasn't guaranteed success, with the team relying on late goals to rescue matches. Despite Ismaila Sarr's early opener, Crystal Palace dominated the first half, with Alisson Becker making crucial saves to keep Liverpool in the game.
Federico Chiesa's late goal seemed to salvage a point for Liverpool, but Eddie Nketiah's stoppage-time strike sealed a 2-1 win for Palace, exposing Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities. The result highlights the challenges Liverpool faces despite their record-breaking transfer spend of nearly £450 million.
“If one team deserved to win today, it was Palace,” said Slot.
“Credit to Palace - with the Community Shield, it's not the first time we've lost to them.
“They deserved to be two or three up in the first half.”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed frustration with his team's defensive performance, particularly on set pieces, after Crystal Palace's 2-1 win. The Reds have struggled to defend corners and throw-ins, conceding crucial goals. Slot emphasized the need for improvement in this area, stating, “If you want to compete and be among the top teams, a positive balance in set pieces is essential.”
The winning goal, scored by Eddie Nketiah in stoppage time, was a result of poor defending from Jeremie Frimpong, who left Nketiah unmarked at the back post. Slot wasn't pleased with the lapse, saying, “We have to defend that throw-in much better than we did.” This latest defeat highlights Liverpool's vulnerability on set pieces, with 40% of their conceded goals coming from dead-ball situations.
Slot's concerns about Liverpool's defense were echoed by former Liverpool player John Aldridge, who criticized the team's tactics and defensive performance. Aldridge believes Palace deserved their win, citing Liverpool's “very poor” defense. Despite the setback, Slot remains defiant, stating, “Frustrated? Yes. Defeated? Never. We learn from all games—even the losses.”
“We can only blame ourselves for defending the way we did,” said Slot.
“One of our players ran out because he wanted to play a counter-attack, which was of no use because time was up, so it was only about defending.
Reaction from Arne Slot's press conference after our 2-1 away defeat at Crystal Palace ⤵️
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 27, 2025
“One player was too offensively minded in that moment, which led to them scoring the winner and us losing the game.”
Crystal Palace has emerged as the sole unbeaten team in the Premier League this season, boasting an impressive streak. They have played 5 games, securing 2 wins and 3 draws, which highlights their consistency. The Eagles' unbeaten run spans 18 games in all competitions, dating back to before their FA Cup win last season.
This remarkable streak showcases Palace's resilience and determination. With Liverpool's recent loss, Palace stands out as a team to watch in the Premier League. Their ability to maintain an unbeaten record demonstrates their strength and adaptability.
“These are the moments why we love football. The fans will have a great Saturday evening now,” said Palace boss Oliver Glasner.
“We deserved it. Great performance, great game, great win.”
Palace manager Oliver Glasner believes his team's first-half display against Liverpool was a new high, showcasing their impressive performance. Glasner has transformed Palace's fortunes over the past 18 months, and this latest win demonstrates the team's growing strength and consistency under his leadership.
“I think the first half was the best half since we arrived,” he said.
“Leading the champions by one goal you always think they can strike back and we were under immense pressure in the second half.
“But even when they equalised and the momentum can change we kept our heads. It was such a team effort.”
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