Crystal Palace put on a dominant display to secure a 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Conference League. The Eagles’ victory was built on a strong first-half performance, with Maxence Lacroix scoring the opener in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on Marc Guehi’s header. Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead just before half-time, pouncing on a set-piece delivery that AZ failed to clear.
AZ Alkmaar pulled one back early in the second half through Sven Mijnans, but Sarr quickly restored Palace’s two-goal advantage with a well-taken finish. The win moves Crystal Palace up to ninth in the league phase, while AZ drops to 27th.
The victory marked a return to form for Palace, who had suffered a surprise defeat to AEK Larnaca in their previous European outing. Manager Oliver Glasner praised his team’s performance, highlighting their physicality and clinical finishing. Lacroix, who scored the opening goal, expressed his delight at contributing to the win, saying, “I’m a defender, but I can score goals”.
