Brentford and Crystal Palace shared the spoils in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Brentford Community Stadium, with Dango Ouattara's late equalizer denying the hosts a crucial victory.
Brentford entered the match seeking to climb the Premier League table from eighth place, while Crystal Palace arrived in 15th, desperate for points to strengthen their position. The Bees dominated possession and looked to build on recent form, but Palace proved dangerous on the counter-attack throughout the afternoon.
The visitors struck first with stunning speed. In the sixth minute, Ismaïla Sarr converted a penalty after Brentford conceded an early foul in the box. Palace's clinical start put the hosts on the back foot immediately.
Brentford responded well to the setback and controlled possession for large periods. However, Palace remained a constant threat. In the 40th minute, Ouattara found space and fired past the Brentford goalkeeper to extend Palace's lead to 2-0 heading into the break.
The home side faced a mountain to climb at halftime. They needed to improve their attacking play and tighten their defense. Palace had taken their chances efficiently despite limited possession.
Brentford emerged with renewed purpose after the interval. Adam Wharton reduced the deficit in the 52nd minute with a well-taken finish. The goal sparked belief among the home supporters and shifted the momentum decisively.
The Bees pressed hard for an equalizer. They created multiple chances and dominated the ball, but Palace's defense held firm for long periods. The visitors looked to hold on and secure a valuable point away from home.
Ouattara struck again in the 88th minute to dash Brentford's hopes of victory. The Palace forward curled a finish past the goalkeeper to make it 2-2. The goal sparked late drama, with both teams pushing for a winner in the final moments.
Neither side could find a breakthrough. Yellow cards flew in the closing stages as tensions rose. The match ended level after an entertaining contest.
Brentford created more chances overall, recording 15 total shots compared to Palace's 14. The hosts enjoyed 58% possession and generated an expected goals total of 1.87, while Palace managed 1.62 xG. Ouattara was the standout performer, scoring twice from five shots on target and earning an 8.3 rating.
The draw leaves Brentford in eighth place with 51 points from 36 matches. Crystal Palace remain in 15th on 44 points, having gained ground in their battle for survival. Both teams will feel different emotions about the result.
