Oliver Glasner’s bold selection sparks a convincing Palace win after a rocky European run

Crystal Palace returned to winning ways in Europe with a dominant 3-1 victory over AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Conference League, a result that put them firmly back on track after recent frustrations.

Manager Oliver Glasner, under scrutiny following a disappointing defeat to AEK Larnaca in their previous group match, produced the perfect response with a tactically assured performance at Selhurst Park. The Austrian made only one change to the team that beat Brentford in the Premier League, signalling his determination to take control of the group and restore momentum.

From the outset, AZ Alkmaar sought to press high and unsettle Palace. Their intensity forced several early mistakes, and Jean-Philippe Mateta found himself isolated, touching the ball just three times in the opening ten minutes. But Glasner’s side absorbed the pressure well and gradually took charge through composed passing and sharper movement across midfield.

The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when a Palace free-kick from deep caused confusion in the AZ defence. Chris Richards rose highest to meet the delivery, and although his header hit the post, Maxence Lacroix reacted quickest to smash home the rebound. The French defender’s first goal for the club lifted the crowd and sparked a surge of confidence through the team.

From then on, Palace dictated the tempo. Ismaila Sarr, in outstanding form once again, was a constant menace down the right flank, combining pace with precision to stretch the visitors’ defence. His energy and directness gave Palace an extra edge in attack, while Eberechi Eze orchestrated play with elegance in the final third.

Just before half-time, Palace doubled their advantage through Mateta, who finished smartly after a flowing move involving Sarr and Eze. The striker’s goal was his sixth of the campaign, underlining his importance as the focal point of Glasner’s attack.

AZ responded briefly after the break, pulling one back through Vangelis Pavlidis, who finished clinically following a lapse in concentration from the Palace back line. For a few minutes, the Dutch side sensed a route back into the game. But Glasner’s men showed maturity and discipline, quickly regaining control and closing down any space for AZ’s creative players.

The decisive third goal came midway through the second half. A well-timed interception from Richards launched a counter-attack that ended with Sarr cutting inside and firing low past the goalkeeper. The Senegal international celebrated with his teammates in front of an elated Holmesdale Stand, sealing a result that felt both commanding and restorative.

Palace saw out the remainder of the match with assurance, moving the ball efficiently and pressing high whenever AZ attempted to build from the back. It was a performance that reflected Glasner’s emphasis on intensity, structure and belief, qualities that had been missing in recent weeks.

Speaking after the match, Glasner praised his team’s response. “We needed to show character tonight and we did,” he said. “It was not only about winning, but about the way we approached the game. Everyone played with energy and purpose.”

The win extends Palace’s unbeaten run in Europe this season and puts them back in contention to top their group. For Glasner, it was also a personal vindication after facing criticism for his rotation against Larnaca. His decision to restore key players and tweak his attacking setup paid off handsomely.

As the final whistle sounded, Selhurst Park echoed with renewed optimism. After a period of inconsistency, Crystal Palace look once again like a side capable of going deep in Europe, disciplined, dangerous and united under Glasner’s clear vision.