Crystal Palace vs AZ Alkmaar: Sarr’s Double Revives Eagles’ Form
Crystal Palace returned to winning ways in the UEFA Conference League after a convincing 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park. Ismaila Sarr’s brace and a strike from Maxence Lacroix sealed the victory for Oliver Glasner’s side.
Match Overview
After a surprising 1-0 home defeat to Larnaca in their previous group stage match, Palace produced a stronger performance. They dominated possession early and capitalized on defensive errors from the Dutch visitors.
Key Moments
- In the 22nd minute, Maxence Lacroix opened the scoring with a precise right-footed shot into the bottom-left corner, following Marc Guehi’s cushioned header.
- Earlier, Jean-Philippe Mateta missed a penalty that was saved by Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro, who had brought down Ismaila Sarr to concede the spot-kick.
- Just before half-time, Sarr extended Palace’s lead, reacting fastest after AZ failed to clear a set-piece delivery.
- AZ’s captain, Sven Mijnans, pulled one back in the 54th minute when his effort deflected to wrong-foot Dean Henderson.
Club Records
The result extended AZ Alkmaar’s winless streak in England to 11 matches, while the Eagles climbed higher in their group standings with renewed confidence.
“Ismaila Sarr’s brace led Crystal Palace to a 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar at Selhurst Park.”
Author’s Summary
Crystal Palace overcame recent setbacks with a sharp 3-1 victory, driven by Ismaila Sarr’s clinical finishing and a strong team response at home.