AZ Defeated 3-1 by Crystal Palace in UEFA Conference League
AZ suffered a clear defeat against Premier League club Crystal Palace on Thursday in the UEFA Conference League, losing 3-1. Despite the scoreline, Palace might have scored more at their home ground, Selhurst Park.
Early Chances and Missed Penalty
Crystal Palace, who qualified for the tournament by winning the English FA Cup, created their first notable opportunity in the 11th minute. Chris Richards headed a long ball back into the box where Ismaila Sarr controlled it on his chest, but his volley struck the post.
Shortly after, Palace earned a penalty. Yeremy Pino delivered a through ball that found Sarr via Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro. However, Jean-Philippe Mateta's penalty attempt was saved by Owusu-Oduro, who displayed impressive goalkeeping.
Palace Increases Pressure and Scores
Oliver Glazer’s team kept up the pressure following the penalty miss by bombarding the AZ goal with shots. Highlights included Owusu-Oduro making a remarkable save on a header from Sarr and Will Hughes’ looping volley that hit the crossbar.
Eventually, Palace broke the deadlock. A long ball into the box was nodded down by Sarr to defender Maxine Lacroix, who struck a low and powerful volley into the corner.
AZ’s Response
AZ challenged Palace’s keeper Dean Henderson for the first time during first-half injury time. Sven Mijnans took a strong shot from outside the area, but Henderson managed to push it away from the corner.
“Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has a good record from penalties, saw his effort saved by Owusu-Oduro.”
Moments after, Palace extended their lead to 2-0.
Summary
Crystal Palace dominated most of the match, with AZ unable to match their intensity and clinical finishing.
Author’s note: Crystal Palace displayed superior control and attacking threat, leaving AZ struggling to keep pace in this Conference League clash.