Here’s a bold statement: Crystal Palace isn’t just a good football team—they’re a force to be reckoned with, and their recent performance against AZ Alkmaar proves it. But here’s where it gets controversial: Are they truly the favorites to win the Europa Conference League, or is this just a fleeting moment of brilliance? Let’s dive in.
By now, anyone who’s been following Oliver Glasner’s side knows they’re a team on the rise. Yet, their 4-1 victory over AZ Alkmaar on Thursday night wasn’t just another win—it was a statement. It erased any doubts lingering from their disappointing 1-0 loss to AEK Larnaca, a rare misstep for the London club. Glasner himself admitted pre-match that a strong response was crucial, especially against a formidable opponent like AZ Alkmaar, who are no pushovers in this season’s competition.
And this is the part most people miss: The game started with AZ Alkmaar dominating the first ten minutes, pinning Palace in their own half. Palace’s early passes were sloppy, but there was no panic—neither on the pitch nor in the stands. The response was inevitable, and when it came, it was nothing short of emphatic.
Glasner’s disciplined squad weathered the storm, then took control. Ismaila Sarr’s strike against the post from a free kick was just the beginning. For the next 20 minutes, Palace dominated relentlessly. Jean-Philippe Mateta’s penalty was saved, Sarr’s header forced a brilliant stop, Will Hughes hit the bar, and Maxence Lacroix finally broke the deadlock with a stunning strike. AZ Alkmaar couldn’t catch a break.
Lacroix’s goal, from Jefferson Lerma’s long throw, showcased Palace’s set-piece prowess—a weapon they’ve honed to perfection. The goal survived a near three-minute VAR review, leaving even pundits like Glenn Hoddle scratching their heads. Palace then added a second before halftime, with Sarr tapping in from close range after a set piece. It was a masterclass in efficiency.
The first half alone was a textbook display of football: rock-solid defense, clinical finishing, and overwhelming strength from set pieces. After the break, Palace continued to assert their dominance, even after AZ pulled one back in the 55th minute. Lesser teams might have crumbled, but Palace responded immediately. Mateta’s sensational through ball to Sarr, who coolly finished for his eighth goal of the season, restored their two-goal lead.
From there, Palace cruised, even resting key players ahead of their Sunday match against Brighton. It was the perfect European night, a clear marker to their rivals: Palace are here to win the Europa Conference League.
But here’s the question: Can they maintain this level throughout the tournament? Or will other contenders like AZ Alkmaar find a way to counter their set-piece dominance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
