This was more than just three points; this was Crystal Palace delivering a stunning statement, turning a nightmare start into a dominant 3-1 victory against Nottingham Forest and emphatically ruining Oliver Glasner's return to Selhurst Park! The Eagles showed incredible fight and attacking prowess, proving their new tactical approach is truly taking flight in the Premier League.
Key Points from Selhurst:
- Crystal Palace overcame an early Nottingham Forest lead to secure a 3-1 comeback win.
- Goals from Kamada, Lerma, and Pino sealed a dominant performance for Pierre Sage's side.
- Oliver Glasner's return to his former stomping ground ended in defeat and fan taunts.
- Walter Benítez made crucial saves to keep Palace in the game during a shaky start.
Early Setback, Benítez's Heroics Keep Palace Afloat
The atmosphere at Selhurst Park was electric, but it almost turned sour just three minutes in. A defensive lapse saw Anan Khalaili misjudge a header, allowing Dan Ndoye to pounce and put Nottingham Forest ahead. It was a classic punch to the gut for the home crowd.
However, Crystal Palace refused to buckle. Goalkeeper Walter Benítez emerged as an early hero, making a string of incredible saves that prevented Forest from extending their lead. His interventions were absolutely vital, giving Pierre Sage's men the time and space to regroup and eventually seize control.
The Eagles Soar: Kamada & Lerma Ignite a First-Half Turnaround
The resilience paid off in spectacular fashion. As the first half drew to a close, Crystal Palace found their rhythm and their goals. The attacking intent that has been building under Sage finally burst forth.
Kamada's Breakthrough: A Moment to Savor
In the 41st minute, Daichi Kamada etched his name onto the scoresheet, slotting home his debut Premier League goal from inside the box. It was a moment of pure relief and joy, igniting the Selhurst faithful and signaling a shift in momentum. This wasn't just a goal; it was a psychological blow for Forest.
Lerma's Header Seals a Dominant Half
And then, just before the half-time whistle, Jefferson Lerma delivered the killer blow. A superb cross found him perfectly, and his powerful header sailed past Matz Sels, putting Palace astonishingly 2-1 up. To score three or more goals in two of their last four league games – matching their output from the previous 37 combined – highlights a remarkable attacking transformation.
Pino's Clincher and Glasner's Unhappy Reunion
The second half saw Crystal Palace continue their relentless pressure, determined to put the game beyond doubt. Their attacking swagger was undeniable, and it wasn't long before they found their third.
Pino Ends His Drought in Style
In the 59th minute, Yeremy Pino showed superb predatory instincts. After Jørgen Strand Larsen's shot was parried by Sels, Pino reacted quickest to the rebound, smashing it home to make it 3-1. This goal was a huge personal triumph for Pino, ending a frustrating run of 19 league appearances without a goal. The floodgates had truly opened.
The home fans, meanwhile, had a message for Oliver Glasner. Despite a respectful pre-match reception, chants mocking the former Palace manager echoed around the stadium as his Forest side struggled to mount a meaningful comeback. Benítez even denied Chris Wood late on, ensuring the comfortable 3-1 scoreline remained intact.
What This Statement Victory Means for Palace and Forest
This emphatic win lifts Crystal Palace to 12th in the Premier League table with 7 points. Crucially, it eases the early-season pressure on Pierre Sage and validates the aggressive, attacking style he's trying to implement. This performance suggests a bright future for the Eagles.
For Nottingham Forest, however, the mood is much darker. They drop to 14th with 5 points, leaving Oliver Glasner with significant defensive headaches to solve. His reunion with Selhurst Park will be one he'll want to forget quickly.
