Crystal Palace’s weekend draw had been dominated by Jean-Philippe Mateta, who scored a hat-trick yet missed a last-minute chance to win. That near miss seemed to linger as the forward squandered an even bigger opportunity early in this match, volleying straight into the crossbar after Zlatan Alomerović spilled the ball six yards out.

Without Adam Wharton in midfield, Palace often lacked creativity, a problem highlighted when centre-back Jaydee Canvot attempted a speculative 40-yard strike that barely missed the target.

For much of the first half, it was a case of job done for Larnaca. Their low block frustrated the Eagles, keeping the home side from breaking through and entering the break with a clean sheet.

Palace came close to opening the scoring early in the second half when a short-corner routine saw Will Hughes deliver a perfect cross to Maxence Lacroix, but his header from six yards drifted just wide. Moments later, a defensive mix-up allowed Riad Bajić to slot high past Dean Henderson, giving Larnaca the lead.

Palace boss Oliver Glasner responded by introducing Eddie Nketiah, hoping to spark a revival. The former Arsenal striker created a golden opportunity for Mateta, whose six-yard effort was miraculously saved by Alomerović. Nketiah also went close with a headed chance from another Hughes delivery, but Palace’s finishing woes persisted.

Even when Mateta and Nketiah were in prime positions, neither could convert, confirming what had become clear — it was not Palace’s night.

The defeat marked Palace’s first home loss since February, while Larnaca ended a long winless European road run in spectacular fashion, toppling one of the favourites to progress from the group.