Senegal forward Ismaïla Sarr targets more goals in Conference League final

Senegal forward Ismaïla Sarr says he is determined to play a decisive role in the Europa Conference League final as Crystal Palace prepare for the first European final in the club’s history against Rayo Vallecano.

The 27-year-old heads into the final as the competition’s leading scorer after netting nine goals during Palace’s European campaign, including goals in each of his last five matches in the tournament.

His form has made him one of the key figures ahead of the final, with the Senegal international emerging as one of Palace’s main attacking threats throughout the season.

Speaking to UEFA before the match, Sarr insisted his individual success had only been possible because of the collective work of the team.

“That’s what my coach and teammates expect of me. We play as a team. Without the team, I wouldn’t have scored many goals, if any at all. Individually, we’re good, but collectively, we’re excellent. That’s why I always say ‘we,’” he confided.

The former Africa Cup of Nations winner also made clear that his ambition is to continue his impressive scoring run in the final.

“I’m very happy to score goals for my team and to be the competition’s top scorer so far. I hope this streak continues in the final. I really want to help my team win, whether by scoring or providing an assist. I want to be decisive in the final and score two or three more goals in this competition.”

Sarr also spoke about facing fellow Senegal international Pathé Ciss, who plays for Rayo Vallecano.

“He’s a good lad, he’s kind. I wish him a good match and I want to tell him to prepare well because we’re going to do everything we can to deliver a great performance and bring the trophy back to the Crystal Palace fans.”

The winger arrives for the final after a standout season in which he was voted Crystal Palace’s Player of the Season following a campaign that produced 21 goals in all competitions.

Reflecting on his experiences in finals, Sarr also highlighted his strong record in major matches.

“Since I started playing football, I think I’ve only lost one final: against Algeria at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. I’ve also won two trophies here (the 2024/25 FA Cup and the 2025 Community Shield).

I’m hoping to win a third with Crystal Palace. I love playing these matches because they’re a real celebration. But you have to win to be able to celebrate the victory with all the fans and the Crystal Palace staff afterwards.”

With Palace aiming to make history, much of the club’s hopes will rest on the form of Sarr, whose performances have already played a central role in the team’s run to the final.