By
SABC Sport
6th May 2026
Holding a 3-1 advantage from the first leg, Palace are within touching distance of a European final, but Glasner has warned against complacency despite the favourable position. "Nobody believes the job is done," he said, highlighting Shakhtar's pace and technical quality. "We could see how good they are - quick players, good dribblers. We will need another great performance."
The Austrian, who will leave the club at the end of the season, admitted the occasion carries extra significance as he looks to deliver a parting gift. Having guided Palace to their first-ever major trophy in last season's FA Cup and followed it up with Community Shield success, Glasner believes his squad have already exceeded expectations - but insists their hunger remains intact.
"The closer you come, the more you want it," he said. "We have huge desire, confidence and belief. Nobody is satisfied with just playing a semi-final - we want the final."
That ambition is underpinned by what Glasner repeatedly described as an "incredible group" of players, whose progress over the past two seasons has transformed the club's trajectory. "What they've done is just incredible," he said. "A few years ago, this was so far away for Palace - now it's so close. We can write history again."
Selhurst Park is expected to play a key role, with Glasner anticipating an intense atmosphere. "We know we'll have fantastic support. It was special against Fiorentina, and it will be even more electric tomorrow. That's what we need."
Rather than overhauling his approach, Glasner has urged his players to trust the methods that brought them this far. "We know what to do. We don't need to change a lot - just play at our best level," he said.
Team news offers a mixed picture, with Will Hughes returning to boost the midfield, while Evan Guessand misses out after only partial training. Glasner also addressed comments from Christantus Uche, stressing he prefers to handle issues internally but reaffirming the club's support for the player.
Beyond the immediate task, Glasner reflected on his time in south London, acknowledging growing recognition from supporters as his departure approaches. "People just say thank you for these two exciting years," he said. "I see myself as part of the group - I couldn't do anything alone."
Victory would send Palace into a second major final under Glasner and mark his fourth consecutive season reaching a showpiece match across different clubs - a record he downplayed. "I'm just lucky to manage fantastic players," he said.
