Crystal Palace begin Conference League play at Selhurst Park after demotion from the Europa League, facing Norway's cup winners Fredrikstad. The occasion is tarnished by perceived injustice and a lack of glamour given Fredrikstad's mid-table domestic status. Palace nonetheless gain a tangible competitive upside because Premier League clubs possess a marked financial advantage over most other entrants, making them likely favourites. That advantage has already produced two winners in four editions and scenes of celebration for English clubs. The Conference League's original aim to boost smaller nations has been challenged by dominance from wealthier leagues.
A red-letter event in the club's history has been soured by their demotion from the Europa League and the sight of Norway's cup winners, Fredrikstad, mid-table in the Eliteserien, lining up against Oliver Glasner's players will hardly lend itself to a sense of glamour. For all the burning sense of injustice, there is a clear upside for Palace. They will probably never have a better chance of European success if history and raw numbers are measures to go by.
Any Premier League club should start as hot favourites to win the continent's third-tier competition, such is their financial advantage over all of the contenders. That status has been justified in two of its four editions and there is inspiration to be taken from the scenes of joy when West Ham and Chelsea took the trophy home. There is also a warning sign for the tournament itself.
Collection
[
|
...
]