Crystal Palace advance to Conference League last 16 despite Ismaïla Sarr’s missed chances

Crystal Palace secured their place in the Europa Conference League round of 16 on Thursday, eliminating HŠK Zrinjski Mostar with a 3-1 aggregate win, but Senegalese winger Ismaïla Sarr saw his night spoiled by missed opportunities.

The Eagles advanced comfortably over two legs, with Maxence Lacroix and Evann Guessand providing the goals that ensured qualification.

Sarr, however, was unable to add to his personal tally despite a series of promising chances throughout the match.

His first warning came in the 29th minute when, after a precise cross from Tyrick Mitchell, Sarr’s shot grazed the post, failing to beat the goalkeeper.

The scenario repeated in the 80th minute, with another Mitchell assist allowing the winger a clear chance that again went begging.

The decisive moment arrived five minutes from time when Chris Richards found Sarr one-on-one with HŠK Zrinjski’s goalkeeper Goran Karacic.

Despite a powerful strike, Karacic made the save, denying Sarr a goal that would have capped a strong performance.

Despite the missed opportunities, Palace now turn their focus to the round of 16.

The draw, scheduled for Friday, could see the London side face clubs like Mainz or Larnaca, setting up new challenges in the competition.

Senegalese talent continues to feature prominently in the Europa Conference League, with Chérif Ndiaye of Samsunspor and Rayo Vallecano duo Pathé Ciss and Nobel Mendy still in contention.

They could potentially meet Polish side Lech Poznan in the next stage.

For Palace, the result reinforces the team’s steady European campaign, while Sarr will be hoping to convert chances in future fixtures to contribute more decisively in the knockout rounds.