Key Takeaways:
- Crystal Palace secured their first ever home win in a European competition last night
- Ismaïla Sarr netted twice and played a key role in the 3:1 triumph over AZ Alkmaar
- Maxence Lacroix and Sven Mijnans were also on the scoresheet during this Conference League clash
Match Overview
Crystal Palace made history last night as they recorded their maiden home victory in European football, defeating AZ Alkmaar 3:1 in the third round of the Conference League. The London side delivered an assertive performance at Selhurst Park, with Ismaïla Sarr producing an influential display to guide the Eagles to a landmark result.
First Half: VAR Drama and Sarr’s Impact
The hosts set the tone from the outset, with Ismaïla Sarr causing significant problems for the AZ defence. Midway through the first half, Sarr was fouled inside the area, earning Crystal Palace a penalty. However, Jean-Philippe Mateta was unable to convert from the spot.
Job done.
+3 ✅ pic.twitter.com/T7pudcDpWe— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) November 6, 2025
Just moments later, in the 22nd minute, Maxence Lacroix found the back of the net with a well-taken shot from the edge of the box. Although the goal was initially ruled out for offside, a VAR review overturned the decision, awarding Palace their opener. Sarr then capped his impressive first half by scoring in stoppage time, increasing the lead before the break.
Second Half: AZ Respond but Sarr Seals the Result
After the interval, Crystal Palace maintained their attacking momentum. AZ Alkmaar narrowed the deficit when Sven Mijnans scored in the 54th minute, offering the visitors hope of a comeback. That optimism was short-lived, as Sarr restored the two-goal cushion just 130 seconds later with his second goal of the evening, putting the result beyond doubt.
| Team | Goals | Goal Scorers |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal Palace | 3 | Maxence Lacroix (22’), Ismaïla Sarr (45+), Ismaïla Sarr (approx. 56’) |
| AZ Alkmaar | 1 | Sven Mijnans (54’) |
