Crystal Palace learn Conference League opponents after demotion from Europa League
Have been demoted from Europa League
Face two-legged play-off
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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Eagles are still digesting the disappointment of being barred from the Europa League as a result of falling foul of multi-club ownership rules, but they have now discovered who they will play in the Conference League play-offs; they will play Norwegian side Fredrikstad FK.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Fredrikstad were defeated 5-1 by Danish side FC Midtjylland on aggregate in the Europa League qualifiers and have, as a result, dropped into the Conference League play-offs. They are one of the most successful clubs in Norway, having won the league title nine times. However, they have never played in a European group stage.
DID YOU KNOW?
Palace will welcome their Norwegian opponents to Selhurst Park on Thursday August 21. The second leg takes place at Fredrikstad's 12,000-seater stadium.
WHAT NEXT?
Palace play Chelsea in their Premier League opener this weekend before they face Fredrikstad. After that, three days later, they face a grudge match against Nottingham Forest, the team who replaced them in the Europa League.

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