Crystal Palace Vs AZ Alkmaar, UEFA Conference League 2025-26
Ismaila Sarr's Double Secures Victory
Ismaila Sarr scored twice as Crystal Palace defeated AZ Alkmaar 3-1 at Selhurst Park, returning to winning form in the UEFA Conference League.
Match Highlights
- Maxence Lacroix opened the scoring for Palace in the 22nd minute, finishing a cushioned header from Marc Guehi with a precise right-footed shot.
- Jean-Philippe Mateta missed a penalty five minutes before Lacroix's goal, saved by Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro, who conceded the penalty after fouling Sarr.
- Sarr doubled the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive error from AZ during a set-piece.
- AZ Alkmaar pulled a goal back in the 54th minute when a deflected attempt by captain Sven Mijnans wrong-footed goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Additional Context
AZ Alkmaar previously suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at home to Larnaca and remain winless in 11 visits to England under Oliver Glasner. This match, however, showed no such struggles for Crystal Palace.
"Ismaila Sarr scored twice as Crystal Palace returned to winning ways in the Conference League after Thursday's 3-1 victory over AZ at Selhurst Park."
Overall, Crystal Palace's strong performance helped them improve their position in the UEFA Conference League standings.
Author’s summary: Crystal Palace’s victory over AZ Alkmaar, powered by Ismaila Sarr's two goals, marked a key turnaround in their UEFA Conference League campaign.