Crystal Palace’s European semi-final and what it means to club greats | OneFootball

Crystal Palace step into uncharted territory in Krakow, facing Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League semi-final, a moment stirring pride across south London.

Steve Coppell called it almost justification for what happened before and said the club now rests on very solid foundations. He told The Athletic: My message would be enjoy every second.

This is among the greatest moments in the clubs history. Palace have survived financial crises, two spells in administration and brushes with the third tier in 2001 and 2010, then established themselves in the Premier League. After last Mays FA Cup win, a denied Europa League place galvanised a first European campaign, leaving them three games from more silverware and a shot at that competition.

Club stalwart Steve Kember reflected on survival in 2001 and the journey since, saying: To go from that to this its unbelievable now.

Aki Riihilahti, the former midfielder and now HJK Helsinki chief executive who helped drive creation of the Conference League, said: If they win, it will be talked about by generations of supporters.

Danny Butterfield, a fans favourite through the 2010 administration fight, added: You absolutely wouldnt have considered this possible when I was playing there. He also urged, My message is just enjoy the ride.

Former captain Mile Jedinak said: They are in a very promising position and everybody should get excited by that.

Source: NY Times