Ipswich secures dramatic win at Selhurst Park
Ipswich secured a late victory against 10-man Crystal Palace, with Zian Flemming scoring the winning goal in the 90th minute. This result marked a significant moment for Ipswich manager Gary O’Neil, who had previously managed only a single point from his five prior visits to Selhurst Park as a manager. His celebration of Flemming’s goal reflected the enthusiasm of the travelling Ipswich supporters.
The match was a dynamic affair, with Palace initially taking the lead. However, Emersonn and Leif Davis managed to equalise for Ipswich, cancelling out Anan Khalaili’s first goal for Palace. This came after Axel Disasi received a red card, reducing Palace to ten men. Jørgen Strand Larsen then equalised for Palace with 15 minutes remaining, but Khalaili later missed an opportunity to score, a moment that proved crucial.
Flemming, one of 14 new players signed by Ipswich in a summer of significant spending for a promoted side, ultimately secured the win. His goal came after Davis hit the crossbar with a looping header, and Flemming reacted quickly to scramble home the rebound. This victory suggests Ipswich, who managed 22 points in the Premier League two years ago, are better prepared for the current season.
Challenges for Crystal Palace
The defeat means Palace have now lost their opening two home games of a Premier League season for the first time since 2018. They have also conceded more goals than any other team in the division. Manager Pierre Sage is facing a challenging start to his tenure, having already lost his first two league matches at Selhurst Park. The team’s home form has been a concern, with only 11 points earned at home in 2026, a tally lower than all but one other ever-present Premier League side, Tottenham Hotspur.
Palace’s defensive struggles were evident, as they have not kept a clean sheet in the Premier League since April. Ipswich, similarly, had conceded eight goals from their opening three matches. Palace were also without their captain, Dean Henderson, due to injury. Sage made a notable decision to drop Jaydee Canvot, citing a “sporting decision” due to dissatisfaction with his training performances. Sage stated he requires more from his players and is willing to make tough choices to ensure they perform at their best.
During the match, Walter Benítez was deemed at fault for Flemming’s winning goal. Despite the challenges, 18-year-old Honest Ahanor made his debut for Palace, performing well. The team’s initial lead came after Ipswich lost possession in midfield, allowing Daichi Kamada to set up Khalaili, whose shot deflected off Davis for the goal.
Key moments and upcoming fixtures
The turning point in the match came when Disasi was sent off for a reckless challenge on Jack Clarke, catching him below the knee with studs raised. Following the red card, Sage opted to replace creative player Yéremy Pino with defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, which encouraged Ipswich to press forward. Ipswich’s second goal, scored by Davis, came from a cross by Dara O’Shea that deflected off Emersonn’s shoulder before reaching Davis.
Even with ten men, Palace showed resilience in the second half, with Quinten Timber having two close attempts before Strand Larsen equalised. Kamada provided a clever pass, allowing the Norway striker to hold off Issa Diop and beat Kjell Scherpen. However, Flemming’s late winner sealed the victory for Ipswich. Scherpen had been fortunate earlier in the game to avoid punishment for a misplaced pass that went to Adam Wharton, who scuffed his shot.
The atmosphere at Selhurst Park has also been a talking point, with the Holmesdale Fanatics, a key fan group, ceasing all activity due to concerns that “genuine” fans are no longer prioritised. Palace’s next fixture at Selhurst Park is a Europa League match against Lech Poznan on Thursday, followed by a home game against Nottingham Forest after the international break.
Source: bbc.co.uk