Eddie Nketiah stole the spotlight with a brace as Crystal Palace capped off their FA Cup celebrations with a thrilling 4-2 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in their final Premier League home match on Tuesday.
Fresh off their historic FA Cup triumph against Manchester City, marking the first major trophy in the club’s history, Selhurst Park was in full party mode.
However, the festive mood took a hit momentarily when Emmanuel Agbadou nodded Wolves ahead in the 24th minute.
Palace responded with flair, as Nketiah fired in twice within five minutes before halftime, turning the game on its head and igniting the already jubilant crowd.
His first came after Romain Esse laid it off for him to strike past Wolves goalkeeper Dan Bentley, who might have done better.
Moments later, he calmly slotted in Ismaïla Sarr’s low delivery, his 50th senior career goal.
Three days after coming off the bench at Wembley, Nketiah seized his starting opportunity in style, ending a three-month league goal drought.
“We’re buzzing, we’re happy and it’s a massive day for us. Our manager was keen to keep it going and keep the celebrations going. Everyone was firing and we got the win,” Nketiah said.
“The unity between the fans and the players is amazing and it will be amazing to have European nights here.”
Palace extended their lead early in the second half when Ben Chilwell’s free-kick deflected off Agbadou and into the net.
Wolves pulled one back through Jorgen Strand Larsen’s neat header, but the energy in Selhurst Park never dropped.
Eberechi Eze, the FA Cup final match-winner, entered the fray in the 81st minute and capped off the night with a dazzling solo goal, cutting in and finishing smartly from a tight angle.
The victory not only preserved Palace’s momentum but also ensured they reached a club-record 52 Premier League points under Oliver Glasner.
They’ll close out a remarkable campaign away at champions Liverpool on Sunday.
It was also a sentimental evening for long-time Palace servant Joel Ward, who donned the captain’s armband in his final appearance after 13 loyal years with the club.
By clinching the FA Cup, Palace have secured Europa League football next season, promising more electric nights in SE25.
