Crystal Palace goalkeeper Walter Benítez produced one of the saves of the Premier League season as his side claimed a thrilling 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at Selhurst Park on Sunday.
The Argentina international was in outstanding form throughout the match, making several crucial stops as Forest dominated large periods of the first half.
But one save in particular left everyone stunned.
After Morgan Gibbs-White’s effort crashed against the underside of the crossbar, Liam Delap looked certain to score from close range. Somehow, Benítez recovered and produced an astonishing reaction save to keep the ball out.
Walter Benitez take a bow ?
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 11, 2026
? @CPFC pic.twitter.com/GAOe3PQ0Ma
Benítez: ‘The Ball Was So Fast, So Close’
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Benítez admitted he could barely remember how he managed to make the save.
“I can’t remember too much because the ball was so fast, so close,” he explained.
“But I tried to do my best, help the team, and I tried to keep my whole body behind the ball.
“I hoped I’d save it. I’m happy for this and for the win, of course.”
His heroics proved crucial as Palace turned the match in their favour, with Daichi Kamada, Jefferson Lerma and Yéremy Pino all finding the net.
“I think we played a good game, especially the second-half, and we created more chances,” Benítez added.
“And yes, we pushed most of the time as possible to score more goals, and this is the most important thing today.”
It was a remarkable performance from the Palace goalkeeper, and a save that will surely be among the contenders for the Premier League’s best this season.
Another day at the office for Walter ? pic.twitter.com/LbP6mXgI2Z
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) October 12, 2026
