Crystal Palace were held to a 2-2 draw by Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS) in their final UEFA Conference League group game at Selhurst Park, a result that leaves the Eagles facing an extra play-off round in their bid to reach the last 16.
The hosts made a fast start and went ahead in the 6th minute when Chrisantus Ugonna Uche found the net, finishing confidently after a well-weighted assist from Justin Devenny to give Palace early control.
KuPS responded strongly after the break and turned the game on its head within three minutes. Patryk Parzyszek levelled the score in the 50th minute, converting from close range following an assist from Saku Savolainen.
Moments later, Issa Cissé completed the turnaround in the 53rd minute, firing KuPS into a surprise lead after being set up by Clinton Antwi.
The visitors’ momentum was checked in the 73rd minute when Clinton Antwi was shown a red card, a decision that sparked heavy protests from KuPS players.
Palace took advantage of the numerical superiority and drew level in the 76th minute, with Justin Devenny turning scorer, finishing neatly after a cut-back from Tyrick Mitchell.
Despite late pressure from the home side, Palace were unable to find a winner, and the match ended all square. The result means Crystal Palace finish outside the top eight of the Conference League group standings and must now navigate an extra play-off round to secure a place in the last 16.
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