- [**The best numbers from Palace's World Cup contingent**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/news/first-team/palace-at-the-world-cup-the-numbers/)

It’s finally here. The 2026 FIFA World Cup got underway on Thursday 11th June, when co-hosts Mexico defeated South Africa in the opening game – the first of a record 104 matches at this World Cup, due to the expansion of the tournament from 32 to 48 teams.

With 13 of our players involved, there’s more scope for Palace-related storylines than at any other major international tournament in history.

With the big kick-off upon us here’s a World Cup guide – South London-style – that gives you everything you need to know…

#### **How are our players getting on?**

##### **Group D**

In Group D,  USA enjoyed a dream start to the tournament on Friday (12th) night with Chris Richards helping them along the way. 

The co-hosts produced a stunning display to see off Paraguay 4-1 in LA in front of a raucous home crowd.

An early own goal and a Folarin Balogun double made it 3-0 to the USMNT at half-time. Prior to Balogun's second, Richards went close to scoring in a World Cup, when his flicked header shaved the Paraguay post. 

Mauricio denied Richards and his defenders a clean sheet with a well-taken goal, but Giovanni Reyna's stoppage-time stunner put the finishing touch on a perfect night for the Americans and Richards.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Heck of a World Cup debut for <a href="https://x.com/eastmamba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eastmamba</a> 🐍<br><br>📊 via <a href="https://x.com/OptaJack?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OptaJack</a> <a href="https://t.co/ix9Tk7M4gm">pic.twitter.com/ix9Tk7M4gm</a></p>&mdash; U.S. Soccer Men&#39;s National Team (@USMNT) <a href="https://x.com/USMNT/status/2065643495361298884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Elsewhere in the Group on Saturday (13th) evening, although not a current Palace player, former club captain Tony Popovic – whose coaching staff includes another former Eagles skipper in Mile Jedinak – became the first-ever Australian to both play for and coach the Socceroos at a World Cup Finals.

His team emerged 2-0 victors against Turkey in Vancouver.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tony Popovic makes history 👏<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Socceroos?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Socceroos</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/RllgUbm0d1">pic.twitter.com/RllgUbm0d1</a></p>&mdash; CommBank Socceroos (@Socceroos) <a href="https://x.com/Socceroos/status/2066007533303791684?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

##### **Group B**

Canada ensured all three co-hosts took a point from their opening game after a late equaliser against Bosnia on Friday (12th) evening.

Jovo Lukic puts Bosnia-Herzegovina ahead, but substitute Cyle Larin equalised late in the second-half only 121 seconds after coming off the bench. 

Palace goalkeeper Owen Goodman remained on the bench for the full 90 minutes in Toronto.

##### **Group D**

At the New York New Jersey Stadium on Saturday (13th) evening, making his FIFA World Cup Finals debut in his seventh cap, **Chadi Riad** put in an impressive individual display against Brazil as *the Atlas Lions* held Carlo Ancelotti's side to a 1-1 draw.

With Riad an assured presence at the back, Morocco took the lead on 21 minutes through Ismael Saibari's deft lob – albeit one cancelled out 10 minutes later through Vinicius Junior's excellent curling effort.

The 22-year-old completed 35 of his 40 passes, made three clearances and two recoveries, and won both of his ground duels against the *Selecao* side – with Scotland up next at the Boston Stadium next Friday (19th).

##### **Group F**

**Daichi Kamada** enjoyed a dream start to the World Cup as his late flick earned Japan an impressive draw against the Netherlands in Dallas.

In an entertaining affair, twice the Dutch took the lead, only for Japan to fight back on both occasions. Keito Nakamura had already cancelled out Virgil Van Dijk's opener, but Crysencio Summerville looked to have won it for the Netherlands. 

Enter Kamada who, with two minutes of normal time remaining, diverted a flying header from Koki Ogaw into the net. Whilst unclear on first look, replays showed the last touch came off the Palace man and he was duly credited with the goal.

This means he becomes the first active Crystal Palace player to score a non-penalty goal at the World Cup Finals. Kamada's goal was enough to gain a point, the game finishing 2-2.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nothing short of MAYHEM 😱<br><br>Substitute Kamada heads home an 88th-minute equaliser against the Dutch <a href="https://t.co/l9vrkPBZMd">pic.twitter.com/l9vrkPBZMd</a></p>&mdash; ITV Football (@itvfootball) <a href="https://x.com/itvfootball/status/2066277472061034910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Daichi Kamada with an 88th-minute equaliser for Japan 🤌🇯🇵 <a href="https://t.co/Swh6EKSFkv">pic.twitter.com/Swh6EKSFkv</a></p>&mdash; Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) <a href="https://x.com/CPFC/status/2066280853492142094?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

##### **Group E**

**Evann Guessand** was an unused substitute for Ivory Coast in their 1-0 win over Ecuador in Philadelphia on Sunday (14th) evening.

Germany in Toronto are up next.

##### **Group H**

**Yéremy Pino** is still waiting for his first World Cup Finals appearance as he remained on the bench for La Roja's opening game against Cape Verde. 

The Spanish failed to break down their opponents in Atlanta, Cape Verde claiming a historic point in their first World Cup fixture. 

Pino will hope to be involved in their next game against Saudi Arabia.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;My boy, this is not Crystal Palace anymore&quot; 👀<br><br>Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr exchange words ahead of France v Senegal <a href="https://t.co/Z4K0Ija4Zc">pic.twitter.com/Z4K0Ija4Zc</a></p>&mdash; ITV Football (@itvfootball) <a href="https://x.com/itvfootball/status/2066944141750161852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

##### **Group I**

**Ismaïla Sarr** was given a starting role in a 'Palace derby' on Tuesday, as his Senegal team faced France. 

Les Bleus had both **Maxence Lacroix** and **Jean-Philippe Mateta** on the substitutes bench, while former Eagle Michael Olise started in attack. In a tight first-half, Senegal impressed as the 2018 winners struggled to find their rhythm. Sarr had a decent chance on the half hour mark, but slipped as took aim at goal. 

Then, right on half-time, the Palace man produced a smart run to break away from the French defenders and get on the end of a cross, only for the bounce of the ball to lead to an awkward finish. Sarr's effort cleared the crossbar and the two sides went in level.

In the second-half, France showed their class. Kylian Mbappe broke the deadlock with a clever finish from an Olise pass and would later fire home a sensational long-range effort deep into stoppage time.

Bradley Barcola had earlier made it 2-0, by which point Sarr had been substituted. His replacement Ibrahim Mbaye pulled a goal back with an excellent finish, but Mbappe's fine effort meant it finished 3-1 to France. 

A smooth start for Lacroix and Mateta, although the pair remained on the bench and will both have to wait for their World Cup Finals debut.

Sarr and Senegal will aim to hit back when they face Norway next week.

Norway got their campaign off to a winning start as they defeated Iraq 4-1 in Boston in the other game. However, **Jørgen Strand Larsen** did not get on the pitch on this occasion. 

The forward has been affected by illness in the lead up to the game and remained on the bench.

#### **What is the format?**

For the first time in history, the World Cup will be contested by 48 teams. The expansion is helped by a record 16 venues, with USA, Mexico and Canada sharing co-host duties.

11 cities from USA will host matches, three from Mexico and two from Canada.

The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams in each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to a new round of 32.

From that point on it is straight knockout.

From the quarter-final stage onwards the US hosts every game, with the Final taking place in New Jersey/New York Stadium, normally known as MetLife Stadium, on Sunday, 19th July.

#### **Which Groups feature Palace players?**

Nine of the twelve groups contain nations that have Palace players in their squads.

Groups B, C, D, E, F, H, I, K, and finally L, are all ones to watch.

##### **Group B**

Co-hosts Canada are in Group B who have included Palace ‘keeper Owen Goodman in their final squad.

Goodman is yet to play at senior level for his country, who face Bosnia, Qatar and Switzerland.

With third place potentially progressing, the co-hosts will be looking to reach the knockout round for the first time.

##### **Group C**

Chadi Riad and Morocco can be found in an intriguing looking Group C, alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.

The reigning AFCON champions have a tough looking first fixture against the five-time winners.

But after reaching the semi-finals in Qatar four years ago, Morocco will be looking for another deep run.

##### **Group D**

Chris Richards will have the chance to play for his country on home soil at a World Cup, with USA drawn in Group D at the Finals.

Mauricio Pochettino’s side will be aiming to match their run to the last eight in 2002 with the home advantage and will start off by meeting Paraguay in their first game in New Jersey.

They then face Australia and Türkiye to round out the group stage.

##### **Group E**

Here is where we find Ivory Coast and Palace’s on-loan forward Evann Guessand.

Guessand’s team open up against Ecuador, before then facing four-time winners Germany.

They close out against tournament debutants Curacao in Philadelphia.

##### **Group F**

Japan have included Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada in their squad who is coming into the Finals one cap short of reaching 50.

The four-time Asian Cup winners are looking to reach the quarter-finals for the first time – having been knocked out in the Round of 16 on four previous occasions.

They will face Netherlands, Sweden and Tunisia in Group F.

##### **Group H**

Yéremy Pino will take part in his first World Cup Finals, as part of Spain’s 26-man squad.

The 2010 winners and current European Champions haven’t got past the last 16 in the last two tournaments but will be looking to go further in North America.

Spain are alongside tournament debutants Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay, with their final game against the South American side.

**Group I**

Group I has the most Palace representation, with four of our first team all involved. 2022 finalists France will be able to call upon both Maxence Lacroix and Jean-Philippe Mateta as they go in search of a third star.

In their first game they face Senegal, who will be fired by Palace’s top goalscorer from 2025/26, Ismaïla Sarr.

Then we have Norway and Jørgen Strand Larsen as the third team in Group I. Norway face Senegal on matchday two and France on matchday three. Former Asian Cup winners Iraq make up the group, for their first World Cup finals appearance since 1986.

##### **Group K**

Palace duo Daniel Muñoz and Jefferson Lerma are in Group K, hoping to push Colombia to the knockout stage.

They open up with a game against newcomers Uzbekistan. Then it’s a meeting with DR Congo and finally Portugal in Miami on the final day of the group stages.

##### **Group L**

The final group of the first round includes Euro 2024 finalists England. And, as he was in Germany at the Euros two years ago, Dean Henderson is included the Three Lions squad.

It will be the first time the Palace skipper has experienced a World Cup Finals. England open up against Croatia in a rematch of the 2018 semi-final.

Thomas Tuchel’s side then face Ghana in Boston, before rounding things off against Panama.

#### **Familiar faces**

There are plenty of other Palace connections to look out for in North America throughout the next five weeks.

Australia will be one team to follow, led by two former Palace heroes on the touchline. Former defender Tony Popovic is the Socceroos Manager, with ex-Eagles' captain Mile Jedinak one of his trusted coaches.

Jedinak memorably became the first active Palace player to score in a World Cup Finals back in 2014, when scoring for Australia in a thrilling 3-2 defeat to the Netherlands.

On the playing side, several former Eagles will be looking to go far in the tournament. They include Michael Olise, who has become an key man for a heavily stacked France squad in recent times. The French go into the tournament as one of the favourites to go all the way.

Former Palace skipper Marc Guéhi is likely to be England’s first-choice centre-back. It will be Guéhi’s second major tournament after playing a key role in the Three Lions run to the final at the last European Championships in 2024.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is set to be an important player for DR Congo in Group K, with the The Leopards making their first appearance since the 1974 Finals.

Palace’s former striker Jordan Ayew returns for his third World Cup Finals with Ghana and will be reunited with former club teammate Dean Henderson during the group stage, when the Black Stars face England. 

One more cap for Ayew will see him become Ghana’s most capped player of all-time, as he currently stands level with his brother Jordan.

Meanwhile for UK viewers, former Palace hero Ian Wright will be a key part of ITV’s punditry team throughout the five weeks.

Wright will also be joined by former World Cup winner and Palace Manager from 2021 to 2023, Patrick Vieira.

Former Jamaica international and ex-Eagle Jobi McAnuff will also on punditry duties for the broadcaster.

#### **How can I watch in the UK?**

Every single match will be broadcast on either BBC or ITV, as well as their respective streaming platforms. The World Cup Final is broadcast by both. 

A full breakdown of [the schedule is here](https://www.live-footballontv.com/live-world-cup-football-on-tv.html).

#### **Match details**

***Check back on [cpfc.co.uk](http://cpfc.co.uk) for updates on how our players get on in North America. Here are details of the group games with all times BST.***

#### **Owen Goodman – Canada, Group B**

Friday, 12th June: Canada 1-1 Bosnia (Toronto, Goodman was an unused substitute as Canada took a point)

Thursday, 18th June: Canada v Qatar (Vancouver, 23:00)

Wednesday, 24th June: Switzerland v Canada (Vancouver, 20:00)

#### **Chadi Riad – Morocco, Group C**

Saturday, 13th June: Brazil 1-1 Morocco (New York/New Jersey, Riad played the full 90 minutes and delivered an impressive display)

Friday, 19th June: Scotland v Morocco (Boston, 23:00)

Wednesday, 24th June: Morocco v Haiti (Atlanta, 23:00)

#### **Chris Richards – USA, Group D**

Saturday, 13th June: USA 4-1 Paraguay (Los Angeles, Richards played the full 90 minutes as the co-hosts stormed to a comfortable win)

Friday, 19th June: USA v Australia (Seattle, 20:00)

Friday, 26th June: Türkiye v USA (Los Angeles, 03:00)

#### **Evann Guessand – Ivory Coast, Group E**

Monday, 15th June: Ivory Coast 1-0 Ecuador (Philadelphia, Guessand was an unused substitute)

Saturday, 20th June: Germany v Ivory Coast (Toronto, 21:00)

Thursday, 25th June: Curaçao v Ivory Coast (Philadelphia, 21:00)

#### **Daichi Kamada – Japan, Group F**

Sunday, 14th June: Netherlands 2-2 Japan (Dallas, Kamada became the first active Palace player to score a non-penalty goal in a World Cup Finals with a clever late equaliser)

Sunday, 21st June: Tunisia v Japan (Monterrey, 05:00)

Friday, 26th June: Japan v Sweden (Dallas, 00:00)

#### **Yéremy Pino – Spain, Group H**

Monday, 15th June: Spain 0-0 Cape Verde (Atlanta, Pino remained an unused substitute as Spain were held to a surprise goalless draw)

Sunday, 21st June: Spain v Saudi Arabia (Atlanta, 17:00)

Saturday, 27th June: Uruguay v Spain (Guadalajara, 01:00)

#### **Jørgen Strand Larsen – Norway, Group I**

Tuesday, 16th June: Iraq 1-4 Norway (Boston, Strand Larsen remained on the bench as he team eased to a comfortable win)

Tuesday, 22rd June: Norway v Senegal (New York/New Jersey, 01:00)

Friday, 26th June: Norway v France (Boston, 20:00)

#### **Maxence Lacroix, Jean-Philippe Mateta – France, Group I**

Tuesday, 16th June: France 3-1 Senegal (New York/New Jersey, both were unused substitutes as their side secured an impressive win)

Monday, 22nd June: France v Iraq (Philadelphia, 22:00)

Friday, 26th June: Norway v France (Boston, 20:00)

#### **Ismaïla Sarr – Senegal, Group I**

Tuesday, 16th June: France 3-1 Senegal (New York/New Jersey, Sarr played 75 minutes as Senegal impressed in the first-half, but ultimately fell to defeat)

Tuesday, 23rd June: Norway v Senegal (New York/New Jersey, 01:00)

Friday, 26th June: Senegal v Iraq (Toronto, 20:00)

#### **Jefferson Lerma, Daniel Muñoz – Colombia, Group K**

Thursday, 18th June: Uzbekistan v Colombia (Mexico City, 03:00 BST)

Wednesday, 24th June: Colombia v DR Congo (Guadalajara, 03:00)

Sunday, 28th June: Colombia v Portugal (Miami, 12:30)

#### **Dean Henderson – England, Group L**

Wednesday, 17th June: England v Croatia (Dallas, 21:00 BST)

Tuesday, 23rd June: England v Ghana (Boston, 21:00)

Saturday, 27th June: Panama v England (New York/New Jersey, 22:00)

Crystal Palace have a record number of players involved at the 2026 FIFA World Cup – throughout the tournament you can keep track of how they are getting on here…

World Cup 2026: Sarr features as Senegal beaten; Kamada makes history

Get your Season Ticket here!

After a stunning run of form, where the team won 12 of the last 14 league games, Jo Potter’s side have returned to the WSL at the first time of asking.

Season Tickets are now on general sale, and you can secure your spot for the season from just £50!

Palace fans can now look forward to the visits of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, and others to South London, as the Eagles take on the best of the best.

A 26/27 Women’s Season Ticket covers all 13 home Women’s Super League games, regardless of stadium – meaning any matches at Selhurst Park are also included.

*Supporters should note that Subway Women’s League Cup and FA Cup ties are not covered by 26/27 Season Tickets.*

#### **What does a 2026/27 Women’s Season Ticket include?**

- Ticket for every WSL home fixture
- Priority booking / reservations for every Palace Women fixture at Selhurst Park
- Priority windows for away tickets
- Loyalty Points credited with your purchase
- The option to spread payments via Direct Debit

#### **Ticket Prices**

Seated Season Tickets will cost **£125** and Standing Season Tickets will cost **£90**.

Tickets for Men’s Season Ticket Holders are priced at **£88**, with Junior Tickets priced at **£50**.

Season Tickets are now on general sale and will remain on-sale until the week of our first home game in the WSL.

#### **26/27 Palace Women’s Season Ticket prices:**

- **Adult (Seated):** £125 
- **Adult (Standing):** £90
- **Men’s Season Ticket Holders:** £88
- **U16s:** £50

**Check out the table below for more information.**


| **NEW (From 10:00 Fri 22nd May)**               | **Season Ticket Price** | **Price per Game** |
| ----------------------------------------------- | ----------------------- | ------------------ |
| Adult - Seated                                  | £125                    | £9.62              |
| Adult - Standing                                | £90                     | £6.92              |
| Junior (U16)                                    | £50                     | £3.85              |
| Concession (over 65 and 17-21) - Seated         | £90                     | £6.92              |
| Concession (over 65 and 17-21) - Standing       | £70                     | £5.38              |
| Men’s Season Ticket Holder (Seated or Standing) | £88                     | £6.77              |

Buy your Season Ticket here!

#### **How to buy your ticket**

You can get your 2026/27 Season Ticket by following the step-by-step guide below:

1. Log in to [the Ticketing section](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc?utm_source=website&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=WebsiteStory-StockportTickets-12.12.24) of the website.
2. Navigate to the [Season Tickets section](https://www.eticketing.co.uk/cpfc/Seasons/Seasons).
3. Click the **‘MORE INFO' button** in the **2026/27 Women's Season Ticket section.**
4. Select your seats for the season.
5. Click **‘ADD TO BASKET’** in the top-right of the screen and then follow the remaining on-screen instructions to checkout.

#### **Receiving Your Match Tickets**

Your digital ticket for each home fixture will arrive no later than **72 hours before kick-off**.

For matches played at Selhurst Park, Season Ticket holders must book a seat of their choice, free of charge, during the priority window. We’ll email you full instructions ahead of each game.

#### **Need Help?**

Our Box Office team is here to assist with new purchases, Direct Debit set-up, and accessibility requirements. 

Call [**0333 360 1861**] (Mon-Fri, 9:00am-5:30pm) or email **[boxoffice@cpfc.co.uk](mailto:boxoffice@cpfc.co.uk)**.

Back the Eagles in their return to the WSL – Season Tickets are now on general sale for Crystal Palace Women’s return to the top-flight.

2026/27 Palace Women's Season Tickets are now on General Sale!

Soak it up, savour it – having conquered the 2025/26 UEFA Conference League, Crystal Palace have won a European trophy!

CHAMPIONS OF EUROPE!

## Our Senegalese Sarr

> Ismaïla Sarr became the club’s third signing of the 2024/25 summer transfer window after joining on a five-year deal from Olympique de Marseille.

The 26-year-old attacker possesses plenty of experience of English football, having spent four years at Watford – recording 34 goals and 22 assists in 131 games – prior to joining Marseille, whom he helped reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League last season.

Sarr's career began in French football with Metz, before moving to Rennes and leading the club into Europe, as well as winning their first Coupe de France in almost half a century.

At international level, he has been a mainstay of the Senegal national side, earning 64 caps, scoring 13 goals and winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021.

His career has also been defined by his eye for the spectacular, having won Goal of the Season awards in both the Football League and the Europa League.

Sarr was ever-present in every Premier League matchday squad in his first season at the club, playing in all 38 games, while also featuring in a further nine cup games. He scored 11 goals across all competitions, with eight additional assists - including a stunning effort against rivals Brighton &amp; Hove Albion and a brace against Aston Villa in the FA Cup semi-final.

Sarr produced a remarkable 2025/26 campaign, scoring 21 goals in all competitions and adding two assists, equalling Palace’s Premier League-era single-season scoring record held jointly with Andy Johnson (2004/05). He set the tone early with a late equaliser in the Community Shield victory over Liverpool at Wembley.

In the UEFA Conference League, Sarr delivered a record-breaking European campaign, scoring nine goals in 14 appearances to finish as the competition’s top scorer and Player of the Season. 

His tally included seven knockout-stage goals, striking in five consecutive matches and scoring the fastest goal in Conference League history after 21 seconds against Shakhtar Donetsk in the semi-final first leg.

He also netted twice in the last-16 second-leg win over AEK Larnaca as Palace went on to secure their first-ever European trophy with victory over Rayo Vallecano. He finished the campaign with consecutive Player of the Month awards in March and April, with his performances earning both the Players’ Player of the Season and Player of the Season awards.

2022/23, Watford (v West Bromwich Albion)

EFL Goal of the Season

Watford, 2020/21

Player of the Season

Players' Player of the Season

2018/19, Rennes (v Jablonec)

UEFA Europa League Goal of the Season

December 2024

Crystal Palace Player of the Month

October 2025

Crystal Palace Goal of the Month

March 2026

April 2026

Crystal Palace Player of the Month 

Crystal Palace, 2025/26

Sarr

Instagram

Ismaila Sarr every goal and assist 25/26 season 

Top Goals from Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Extended Highlights: Brentford 2-2 Crystal Palace | Palace TV+

The Full 90: Brentford v Crystal Palace | Palace TV+

Match Action: Brentford 2-2 Crystal Palace

Goal of the Season Contenders 25/26

The Full 90: Crystal Palace v Everton | Palace TV+

Match Action: Crystal Palace 2-2 Everton

Extended Highlights: Crystal Palace 2-2 Everton | Palace TV+

Match Action: Crystal Palace 2-1 Shakhtar Donetsk

Lacroix and Sarr on reaching a European Final

Match Action: Shakhtar Donetsk 1-3 Crystal Palace

Match Action: Fiorentina 2-1 Crystal Palace

Match Action: Crystal Palace 3-0 Fiorentina

Goal AND Player of the Month: Ismaïla Sarr

UEFA CONFERENCE LEAGUE WINNERS COLLECTION

Darren Powell’s young Eagles enjoyed another strong campaign in 2025/26, securing a third consecutive Premier League 2 play-off place after finishing 10th in the regular season. The side went on to beat Liverpool in a dramatic Round of 16 tie before exiting at the quarter-final stage against Manchester United.

Preparations for the 2026/27 season will now begin with a varied schedule of competitive fixtures, including National League South opposition in Dagenham &amp; Redbridge and Horsham FC, as well as a high-flying Category Two U21 side in Queens Park Rangers.

For each fixture, supporters can follow live updates on our [Academy X account](https://x.com/CPFCAcademy), with a full match report and post-match reaction available shortly after full-time in the [Academy news section](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/news/academy/).

Stay tuned to [cpfc.co.uk](http://cpfc.co.uk) for any fixture updates and confirmation of broadcast details closer to matchday.

*Take a look at our Under-21s’ first three pre-season fixtures, below!*

### Dagenham &amp; Redbridge v Crystal Palace U21s

***Tuesday, 21st July (19:30 BST) – Victoria Road***

The young Eagles’ pre-season programme begins with a trip to National League South side Dagenham &amp; Redbridge.

The fixture forms part of a busy July schedule designed to test the squad against a range of opposition levels.

The Daggers returned to Step Two following relegation in 2024/25 and finished the 2025/26 campaign in 13th place with 64 points, 13 points outside the play-off positions.

It has been a period of change at Victoria Road, with significant new investment arriving at the club in recent months, including a minority stake acquired by YouTube personality KSI, increasing the profile of the Daggers.

There has also been a managerial reshuffle, with Lee Bradbury departing before former Premier League and England striker Andy Carroll took interim charge.

Lee Allison has since been appointed as first-team manager, with Carroll remaining as player-assistant manager, overseeing an active summer rebuild with several new additions to an exciting squad.

Ticket information will be confirmed in due course and distributed via [the Dagenham &amp; Redbridge website](https://daggers.co.uk/tickets/).

### Match Details

- Dagenham &amp; Redbridge v Crystal Palace U21s
- Victoria Road
- Tuesday, 21st July
- 19:30 BST

### Horsham FC v Crystal Palace U21s

***Tuesday, 28th July (19:45 BST) – Fusion Aviation Community Stadium***

Palace will then travel to National League South side Horsham FC for their second pre-season fixture.

This match follows the previously announced meeting with Dagenham, as Darren Powell’s side continue their preparations with back-to-back tests against senior opposition from Step Two of the English Football Pyramid.

Horsham enjoyed a landmark 2024/25 campaign, clinching the Isthmian League title on the final day of the season on goal difference, securing promotion to the National League South for the first time in the club’s history following a 5–1 win over Hashtag United.

In their debut season in the Sixth tier, the Hornets adapted well to the step up, finishing a commendable 15th place with 59 points.

In similar fashion to the Daggers, ticket information will be confirmed in due course and distributed via [the Horsham website](https://horshamfc.ktckts.com/).

### Match Details

- Horsham FC v Crystal Palace U21s
- Fusion Aviation Community Stadium
- Tuesday, 28th July
- 19:45 BST

### Crystal Palace U21s v QPR Development Squad

***Tuesday, 11th August (12:00 BST) – Crystal Palace Academy***

Palace will continue their pre-season programme with a home fixture against Queens Park Rangers' Development Squad.

QPR's U21 side compete in the Professional Development League and operate a Category Two Academy, providing another strong test for the young Eagles as preparations for the new campaign continue.

They finished 16th in the Professional Development League with 33 points but enjoyed success in cup competition, lifting the London Senior Cup following a 5–1 final win over Dulwich Hamlet.

Their route to the trophy included heavy victories over Cray Valley Paper Mills, Chislehurst Glebe, AFC Wimbledon and Cheshunt.

The West London club have also continued to produce senior players in recent seasons, with Academy graduates including Rayan Kolli and Kieran Morgan progressing into the first team, while former England international Raheem Sterling also spent part of his development in Rangers' Academy.

### Match Details

- Crystal Palace U21s v QPR Development Squad
- Crystal Palace Academy
- Tuesday, 11th July
- 12:00 BST

We are pleased to confirm three pre-season friendly matches for our Under-21 squad this summer.

Palace U21s first three 2026/27 pre-season matches confirmed

### **The road less travelled**

Born in the Eastern French town of Lons-le-Saunier, Sage’s journey to the Premier League and pinnacle of competitive football is unorthodox by many modern managers’ standards.

Like most, the 47-year-old did enjoy a playing career, but it was largely with French amateur clubs CS Belley before – in his teens – he began to develop a holistic interest in other aspects of the game, including coaching.

Sage’s previous roles in backroom teams across different clubs and leagues in France include positions such as Under-19s assistant coach just 11 years ago. More recently, his CV includes spells in scouting, technical management and as a technical director in clubs across his homeland.

The Manager describes himself as being a ‘trainer and educator’ across an over two-decade long association with the French Football Federation – a reflection on his personality as a true student of the game, from the ground up.

### **Early managerial steps**

Sage’s natural intelligence, sharp insight and varied education have allowed him to shape an impressive holistic perspective on how to attain success in modern football – one which has led him to the elite level of the Premier League.

Sage’s first stint as a senior football Manager came with Chambery in 2013, before he later joined Lyon-La Duchère in 2018 as Assistant Manager.

His variety of experience next led Sage to the role of Youth Coach at Olympique Lyonnais in 2019, before a spell as Assistant Manager to Habib Beye at Red Star FC in Paris and – subsequently – another spell at Lyon as Academy Manager.

It was there he would truly make his mark.

### **Instant impact**

When Sage’s first role in top-level management arrived, he seized the opportunity in some style.

Promoted to Interim Manager at Lyon in November 2023 when Fabio Grosso was dismissed, Sage took charge of a team rooted to the bottom of the Ligue 1 table, on just seven points and with one win to their name at that point.

But Sage knew his players’ ability – and how to unlock it. Under his leadership, Lyon recorded 15 victories in their next 20 league matches, securing qualification for the UEFA Europa League and reaching the 2023/24 Coupe de France Final.

Following one of the most remarkable second-half campaigns in the illustrious history of the seven-time French champions, Sage was appointed Head Coach on a permanent basis, where he remained until January 2025.

He departed with a 1.85 points-per-game tally in Ligue 1 – a Manager used to winning matches.

### **A Lens wait for glory over**

If that spell weren’t remarkable enough, his first and only season in charge at RC Lens – last season – was truly spectacular.

With former Palace striker Odsonne Edouard leading the line (and scoring 14 times in 34 appearances), alongside former Newcastle forwards Allan Saint-Maximin and Florian Thauvin, Sage’s Lens were sharp at both ends of the pitch, scoring the second-most (66), and conceding the second-least (35), number of goals in Ligue 1.

With an 18-point improvement, Sage guided the club to a second-place finish in Ligue 1, climbing six places from the previous season and finishing behind only the European champions, Paris Saint-Germain. The achievement secured qualification for the following season’s UEFA Champions League.

In recognition of his outstanding work, Pierre was named Ligue 1 Manager of the Year by the UNFP, voted for by his professional peers.

Pierre also led RC Lens to their first Coupe de France Final appearance in over two decades, culminating in a 3-1 victory over OGC Nice to secure the trophy for the first time in the club’s history.

### **Style of play**

In the words of the man himself, in an interview undertaken last year, Sage noted: “There are two types of teams: one with the ball, and the other chasing it.”

“During the game, we have some rotations and asymmetric combinations to sometimes play in 4-3-3, but also in 3-4-3 or a 3-2-5,” [the Frenchman told The Athletic in April 2025](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6283217/2025/04/17/pierre-sage-interview-lyon-cherki-textor/). “It depends on what kind of players I have, the opponent and what we want to do in the game.

“My opinion is not to have something strong, it’s to have something very liquid, with the idea to have a lot of adaptations between the games and in the same game, because sometimes, when the opponents change something, if you are not able to adapt, to solve the problems, you will not be competitive.”

Sage’s Lens also made their home ground a fortress, with 14 wins from their 17 Ligue 1 matches at Stade Bollaert-Delelis last season.

Sage – meet Selhurst Park. We have a feeling you’ll get along well…

An astute tactician, an inspiring leader – and a man who makes a big impact wherever he goes, despite having less than 100 professional matches on his managerial CV – let’s take a look back at the varied footballing education of Crystal Palace’s new Manager, Pierre Sage…

First-team

First-team

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Palace U21s first three 2026/27 pre-season matches confirmed

Pierre Sage: the new Crystal Palace Manager's unique career story

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First-team

First-team

World Cup 2026: Sarr features as Senegal beaten; Kamada makes history

Palace U21s first three 2026/27 pre-season matches confirmed

Pierre Sage: the new Crystal Palace Manager's unique career story

UEFA CONFERENCE LEAGUE WINNERS COLLECTION

7IsmaïlaSarr

7Ismaïla
Sarr