Crystal Palace Defeat AZ Alkmaar 3-1 in UEFA Conference League
Ismaila Sarr scored twice as Crystal Palace secured a 3-1 victory against AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park, improving their position in the UEFA Conference League group stage.
Match Summary
- Maxence Lacroix opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a precise right-footed shot after connecting with Marc Guehi's header.
- Jean-Philippe Mateta had an earlier penalty saved by AZ goalkeeper Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro, who had earned the penalty by fouling Sarr.
- Sarr doubled Crystal Palace's lead just before halftime, finishing from close range after AZ failed to clear a set-piece delivery.
- AZ Alkmaar managed to pull one goal back in the 54th minute, with a deflected shot by captain Sven Mijnans wrong-footing Crystal Palace's goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Additional Context
AZ Alkmaar remain winless in their last 11 matches played in England. Their recent home defeat by Larnaca added pressure ahead of this fixture, but they struggled to challenge Palace’s dominance on the night.
"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."
The result marks a strong response from Crystal Palace following earlier setbacks in the competition.
Author's Summary
Ismaila Sarr's double helped Crystal Palace bounce back with a 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar, highlighting their strength in the UEFA Conference League group stage.