Brentford Triumphs in Controversial Opener Against Crystal Palace

Brentford secured a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace in their Premier League opener, benefitting from a fortunate bounce and a disputed refereeing decision. Yoane Wissa scored the winner after a deflected shot, while Bryan Mbeumo also netted. Crystal Palace managed an equalizer but saw two goals disallowed.

Brentford secured a contentious 2-1 win against Crystal Palace in their Premier League opener on Sunday, despite leaving out star striker Ivan Toney due to a possible transfer. Yoane Wissa clinched the victory with a 76th-minute goal following a deflected shot by Nathan Collins, capitalizing on a fortunate bounce off Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson.

This dramatic moment marked Brentford's second lead in the game, coming after Bryan Mbeumo's opening goal in the 29th minute. Mbeumo's score proved doubly frustrating for Crystal Palace, following a disallowed goal at the opposite end just moments earlier. Palace did manage an equalizer through an own goal by Brentford's Ethan Pinnock.

Crystal Palace continued to press, dominating much of the game, but a VAR decision and offside call thwarted their efforts. Brentford manager Thomas Frank explained Ivan Toney's absence before the match, citing 'transfer interest,' while Palace's Marc Guehi played despite ongoing transfer speculation.

(With inputs from agencies.)