About Crystal Palace
Founded in 1905, Crystal Palace takes its name from the iconic Crystal Palace Exhibition building. The early years saw the club compete in the Southern League before joining the Football League in 1920.
Palace’s golden era came under Steve Coppell in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when the club reached its first FA Cup Final in 1990, taking Manchester United to a thrilling replay after a 3-3 draw. After years of near misses, the club finally secured their first-ever FA Cup trophy in 2025, a landmark achievement that solidified their place in English football history. More on these moments can be found in our FA Cup history blog.
Recent years have seen the club stabilise in the Premier League and develop a reputation for exciting, attacking football. Players like Wilfried Zaha, Eberechi Eze, and Jean-Philippe Mateta have become fan favourites, many of whom feature in our list of the best Crystal Palace players.
Crystal Palace Stats & Records
  - Highest league finish: 3rd (First Division, 1990–91)
 
  - Most appearances: Jim Cannon – 660 matches
 
  - All-time top scorer: Peter Simpson – 165 goals
 
  - Biggest win: 9-0 v Barrow (FA Cup, 1959)
 
  - Top scorer 2024/25 season: Jean-Philippe Mateta – 16 goals (see more in Crystal Palace best players)
 
Crystal Palace Rivalries
The club’s fiercest rivalry is with Brighton & Hove Albion, a grudge that has spanned decades despite the geographical distance. The so-called “M23 Derby” is one of the most intense fixtures in English football. You can learn more about the origins and drama of this clash in our Crystal Palace rivals article.
Other notable rivalries include Millwall and Charlton Athletic, stemming from historical league battles and London pride.
Selhurst Park – The Home of Palace
Selhurst Park, in the heart of South London, has been the club’s home since 1924. Known for its intimidating atmosphere, particularly in the Holmesdale Road Stand, it’s a ground where the fans are as much a part of the spectacle as the players on the pitch.
The intimate capacity of just over 25,000 ensures that every cheer, chant, and roar feels electric — a true fortress for The Eagles.