Crystal Palace Secure Victory Over AZ Alkmaar in UEFA Conference League
Crystal Palace returned to winning form in the UEFA Conference League with a 3-1 triumph at home against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday. This marked their first-ever home win at the main stage of a European tournament.
Match Highlights
- Maxence Lacroix opened the scoring for Palace with a sharp finish following a knockdown.
- Ismaila Sarr then scored twice, including a close-range strike at halftime and a neat one-on-one finish soon after the break.
- AZ Alkmaar managed a deflected goal by Sven Mijnans in the 54th minute, but Palace maintained control.
Player Performances and Reactions
Despite a missed penalty by France international Jean-Philippe Mateta in the 17th minute, Palace showed resilience. Defender Lacroix expressed the team's determination:
"The game we lost here was sad for us but we said before we want to give the win to the fans. Everyone deserves it." – Maxence Lacroix, TNT Sports
Group Stage Context
This win brought Palace to six points after three group matches, improving their chances in the competition.
Additional European Result
Meanwhile, Mainz bounced back from behind to defeat Fiorentina 2-1 at home, with a dramatic 95th-minute goal by Lee Jae-sung.
Summary: Crystal Palace ended their home European losing streak with a strong 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar, boosted by key goals from Lacroix and Sarr, showcasing their resolve and ambition in the UEFA Conference League.
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