Crystal Palace and AEK Larnaca Finish in Stalemate at Selhurst Park

Written by Pavel Kateliev

Pavel Kateliev is a popular sport journalist, particularly in the fields of football, basketball, tennis, and hockey. He writes daily for Sportingpedia and his work has been translated into at least 20 languages and featured on renowned outlets such as BBC, Yahoo, MCN, Sun, and Evening News, in Italian, English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

, | Updated: March 13, 2026

Crystal Palace and AEK players in a battle for the ball

Key Takeaways:

Crystal Palace were held to a 0-0 draw by AEK Larnaca at Selhurst Park in the UEFA Conference League round of 16 first leg
The Eagles could not convert a series of chances, including an early effort from Evann Guessand and a late header from Chris Richards
AEK Larnaca extended their unbeaten run to three games across all competitions ahead of their next fixture against Ethnikos Achnas on Monday

Match Overview

The opening leg of the UEFA Conference League round of 16 saw Crystal Palace frustrated in a goalless encounter against AEK Larnaca at Selhurst Park. Despite dominating possession and carving out several significant opportunities, Oliver Glasner’s side were unable to break down their Cypriot visitors, setting up a finely poised second leg.

It finishes level. pic.twitter.com/xlNJZZwW2p
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) March 12, 2026

Key Moments and Missed Opportunities

Crystal Palace began assertively and nearly secured an early advantage after just eight minutes. Jorgen Strand Larsen impressed on the right, advancing into a promising position before supplying a precise pass to Evann Guessand in the area. Guessand’s close-range effort from six yards was impressively denied by goalkeeper Zlatan Alomerovic, who proved pivotal throughout the contest.

Shortly after, Strand Larsen attempted to capitalise himself but could only demand a comfortable save from Alomerovic. While Palace enjoyed the majority of the ball during the first half, they consistently encountered a resolute Larnaca defensive line.

Just before half-time, Alomerović again denied Palace, this time thwarting Tyrick Mitchell’s close-range attempt and keeping the scoreline intact.

Second Half: Continued Pressure Without Reward

AEK Larnaca posed minimal threat in attack, placing the onus on the Eagles to dictate proceeding after the interval. Close to the hour mark, Brennan Johnson’s excellent cross located an unmarked Ismaila Sarr, but the winger’s header lacked accuracy and power, drifting harmlessly wide to the disappointment of the home support.

As rain intensified in London and time ebbed away, Palace pressed forward relentlessly. Chris Richards latched onto a late corner at the far post, only for his headed attempt to narrowly clear the bar.

What Lies Ahead

Unable to claim a third consecutive home victory in all competitions, Crystal Palace now turn their focus back to the Premier League, preparing to host Leeds United this weekend.

AEK Larnaca’s resilient performance means they remain unbeaten in their last three matches, and they will look to maintain this form when they visit Ethnikos Achnas on Monday in domestic league action.