- [**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. So here's your Palace guide, which gives you everything you need to know…

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

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ismaila Sarr&#39;s double made sure Senegal went down fighting against Norway 🇸🇳<br><br>The 2021 Afcon champions still have an outside chance of making the knockout stages 🤏<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/FifaWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FifaWorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/r9LLmyiSYw">pic.twitter.com/r9LLmyiSYw</a></p>&mdash; Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) <a href="https://x.com/BBCMOTD/status/2069291341259915546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

##### **Group I**

**Ismaïla Sarr** became the first Palace player ever to score a brace in a FIFA World Cup Finals match as he netted twice in Senegal's 3-2 defeat to Norway at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Monday (22nd) evening.

The forward's record-breaking season continued with two brilliantly taken finishes which given his country an outside chance of still qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams in Group I, despite two defeats thus far.

Sarr's first goal arrived with Norway having struck twice either side of half-time, with the Palace No. 7 taking Sadio Mané's pass into his stride and slotting beyond the 'keeper.

Norway extended their advantage to two goals through Erling Haaland's second of the night, but Sarr – late on in injury time – placed home his second from Nicolas Jackson's lay-off to keep his side in the competition, even coming close to sealing a hat-trick with a late header.

Sarr's strikes saw him become the first Palace scorer for an African nation at the World Cup and, with three goals, go level with Papa Bouba Diop as Senegal's all-time top scorer at the competition – and the first to score in more than one edition of the tournament.

**Jørgen Strand Larsen** was an unused substitute for Norway, who secured their qualification for the last 32 with victory.

Earlier that evening, France – in a match disrupted due to torrential weather conditions at half-time – had seen off Iraq 3-0 in Philadelphia.

Kylian Mbappé predictably stole the show for *Les Bleus*, who secured their own qualification with a simple victory over the group outsiders. **Maxence Lacroix** and **Jean-Philippe Mateta** were both in the squad, but not involved on the night.

The pair of results mean that – with France and Norway already through, and facing one another in Boston on Friday (26th) – a big win for Senegal against Iraq in Toronto on the same evening could yet see them reach the last 32.

Sarr had been given a starting role in a 'Palace derby' last Tuesday (16th), as his Senegal team faced France. 

Les Bleus had both **Lacroix** and **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. 

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 had been affected by illness in the lead up to the game and remained on the bench.

##### **Group H**

**Yéremy Pino** made his World Cup Finals debut as a second-half substitute for Spain in their dominant 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday (21st).

The Palace No. 10 entered the fray at half-time as a replacement for Lamine Yamal, with La Roja already three goals to the good in Atlanta, and helped force an own-goal from Hassan Altambakti four minutes later.

Pino and Spain's dominant victory saw them move top of Group H, after Pino had been on the bench for La Roja's opening 0-0 draw with Cape Verde. 

Next up for Spain is a match against Uruguay in Zapopan, Mexico.

##### **Group D**

**Chris Richards** was again in action helping USA to a second win of the tournament, as the co-hosts took control of their group with a 2-0 win over Australia. 

With Richards once again starting, one of his opposing numbers, Australian defender Cameron Burgess, inadvertently stabbed the ball into his own net in the 11th minute after US striker Folarin Balogun teased the ball across the face of goal.

And the Americans doubled their lead not long before half-time when Alex Freeman reacted quickest to a deflected Sergino Dest strike.

Richards once again showed himself to be at full fitness by completing the 90 minutes and gave another impressive display in the three-man USA defence.

It meant defeat for Australia, coached by former Palace club captain Tony Popovic – whose coaching staff includes another former Eagles skipper in Mile Jedinak – but they are still well placed to progress to the knockout stage.

Richards and the USA had already thrashed Türkiye 4-1, meaning they have secured a place in the last 32. They will qualify with maximum points if they beat Paraguay in their final game.

##### **Group K**

After waiting nearly a week since the tournament got underway, **Daniel Muñoz and Jefferson Lerma** were in from the off for Colombia's first game against Uzbekistan on 18th June. 

And Los Cafeteros enjoyed a dream start to the World Cup in Mexico City, with the Palace duo at the heart of it. 

With the game level five minutes before the break, former Liverpool man Luis Diaz played a wonderful pass behind the Uzbekistan defence. Muñoz had timed his run to perfection and connected with a superb volley at full stretch to open the scoring. 

A simply stunning strike. It was the wing-back's fourth goal at international level, on his World Cup debut.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ca" dir="ltr">Unbelievable technique from Daniel Muñoz 🪄 <a href="https://t.co/iks56b44O6">pic.twitter.com/iks56b44O6</a></p>&mdash; ITV Football (@itvfootball) <a href="https://x.com/itvfootball/status/2067458690081341867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Uzbekistan did later equalise in the 60th minute through Abbosbek Fayzullaev's close-range header. But Colombia, with Lerma and Muñoz helping them stay on top, quickly responded through Diaz.

Colombia substitute Jaminton Campaz headed in a third goal late on as both Lerma and Muñoz completed the full 90 minutes. The South Americans ran out 3-1 winners to move straight to the top of Group K.

##### **Group L**

England got off to a winning start as they saw off Croatia 4-2 in a thriller in Dallas on Wednesday (17th), with Harry Kane (2), Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford getting the goals.

Palace skipper **Dean Henderson** remained an unused substitute as his team produced an excellent display.

England return to action against Ghana on Tuesday (23rd).

##### **Group B**

After taking a point against Bosnia in their opening game, **Owen Goodman**'s Canada were back in action on Thursday (18th) against Qatar. 

Both sides were looking for their first ever win at a Finals and it was the co-hosts who prevailed. Canada ran out 6-0 winners with Jonathan David scoring a hat-trick as Qatar were reduced to nine men.

Goodman remained on the bench for the full 90 minutes as his team eased to victory in Toronto.

##### **Group E**

**Evann Guessand** made his first appearance at the World Cup Finals on Saturday (20th), as his Ivory Coast side were edged out by Germany in Toronto.

Guessand watched on from the bench in the first-half as his teammates put in a superb performance, taking the lead through captain Franck Kessie in the 30th minute.

But Die Mannschaft would hit back after the break with substitute Deniz Undav levelling. Guessand was then introduced in the 75th minute and, playing in a central role, the forward was involved as the Ivory Coast did create a number of good opportunities.

But they were unable to take them and suffered heartbreak in injury time with Undav produced a smart finish to win the game.

Guessand had already been an unused substitute in the Elephants 1-0 win over Ecuador in Philadelphia, meaning they still have a good chance of progressing to the next round.

##### **Group D**

Once again, **Chadi Riad** put in an impressive individual display as Morocco earned three points with a narrow win over Scotland on Friday (19th).

Ismael Saibari smashed home the only goal in the second minute from a tight angle. But with Scotland piling on the pressure in the second-half, Riad and his defensive colleagues held firm to secure a vital victory for the African champions as they moved onto four points in Group D.

Riad had already excelled in a 1-1 draw against Brazil in the opening round of games.

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).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It&#39;s a FAST start for Japan in the 1000th game 💨<br><br>Daichi Kamada scores after 4 minutes! <a href="https://t.co/xSCavLo6iU">pic.twitter.com/xSCavLo6iU</a></p>&mdash; ITV Football (@itvfootball) <a href="https://x.com/itvfootball/status/2068574155943887217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

##### **Group F**

After becoming the first Palace player to score a a non-penalty goal at the World Cup Finals in their opening fixture, Daichi Kamada made it two goals from two games as Japan thrashed Tunisia 4-0 for their first win of the tournament on Sunday (21st).

The Palace man rounded off a sweeping team move for the opener in Monterrey just four minutes in.

Three further goals followed for the Asian side who produced an excellent performance to move onto four points and eliminate Tunisia in the process.

Kamada had already scored in a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands when he diverted a flying header from Koki Ogaw into the net to salvage a point with two minutes to play.

<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>

#### **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 6-0 Qatar (Vancouver, Goodman remained on the bench as his country secured a first ever win at the World Cup Finals with a dominant showing)

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 0-1 Morocco (Boston, Riad once again impressed as Morocco secured a first win)

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 2-0 Australia (Seattle, Richards gave another impressive display as the USA kept a clean sheet and put themselves clear at the top of the group)

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 2-1 Ivory Coast (Toronto, Guessand appeared from the bench in the 75th minute, but Germany scored a late winner)

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 0-4 Japan (Monterrey, Kamada scored his second goal of the Finals just four minutes in after a clever pull back. He was later substituted in the 73rd minute)

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 4-0 Saudi Arabia (Atlanta, Pino made his World Cup Finals debut at half-time and helped add another goal for Spain to secure qualification)

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 3-2 Senegal (New York/New Jersey, Strand Larsen remained on the bench)

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 3-0 Iraq (Philadelphia, the two Eagles still await their World Cup Finals debuts)

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 3-2 Senegal (New York/New Jersey, Sarr became the first Palace player to score a World Cup Finals brace to keep his side in contention to qualify)

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

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

Thursday, 18th June: Uzbekistan 1-3 Colombia (Mexico City, Muñoz scored the opening goal on his World Cup Finals debut with an excellent volley, as both Eagles completed 90 minutes)

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 4-2 Croatia (Dallas, Henderson was an unused substitute in the Three Lions' opening victory)

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 – and you can keep track of how they are getting on throughout the tournament here…

World Cup 2026: Sarr scores historic double; Pino makes World Cup debut

Crystal Palace

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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
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- 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:

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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.

Following his success in red and blue, Sarr was named in Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, going on to feature 75 minutes in a 3–1 defeat to 2018 world champions France.

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

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Crystal Palace, 2025/26

Sarr

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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

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**Speaking to the matchday programme earlier this season, Benítez – who endeared himself on his debut as a penalty shootout hero in a win over Millwall – discussed targeting glory on the European stage with the Eagles...**

*This interview was initially published in the Crystal Palace v Newcastle matchday programme in April 2026 - you can [buy previous issues of the matchday programme by clicking HERE](https://shop.cpfc.co.uk/giftssouvenirs/souvenirs/programmes/).*

When Walter Benítez signed for Crystal Palace last summer he brought serious European experience with him. Excluding qualifiers, Benítez had played 36 games and over 3,270 minutes across UEFA Champions League and the Europa League at that point in his career. 

Even without knowing what lay ahead in a mammoth 2025/26 season, you felt that his experience would prove crucial at some point. That moment arrived in Cyprus back in March. 

Benítez was between the sticks as the Eagles faced AEK Larnaca in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League Round of 16. After a tense goalless first match at Selhurst Park, both sides knew one mistake could be the difference between advancing, or seeing a maiden European campaign come to an end.

For goalkeepers, above any other player on the pitch, this is where nerves of steel are required. Thankfully Walter walked out to the AEK Arena looking like he was made for the moment.

We had a lot of support, and this is fantastic for us.

“I felt ready,” he told the matchday programme. “It was a very important game for the club. 

“We all knew we had to be in the next round and it’s always difficult when you play European games away from home. 

“But I think we proved that night that we are a good team. Even though it was difficult at times, we continued to push on. We are one team so every player and every staff member helps us. 

“In this game we had a lot of support [from the stands], and this is fantastic for us.”

The scariest moment for those in the open-air away end, and those watching from back home over 2,000 miles away, came during extra-time. 

The Eagles had been the better side for most of the evening, but the Cypriots erupted when Spanish defender Enric Saborit headed in from a corner, forcing an extra 30 minutes. It was classic Palace, never doing things the easy way. 

Eventually Ismaïla Sarr got his second of the evening to restore the lead, with the second-half seeing Larnaca throw everything forward in desperate hope of forcing a penalty shootout.

Match Highlights | AEK Larnaca 1-2 Crystal Palace | UEFA Conference League

After a ball in the box went through to Benítez, the referee blew his whistle and marched over to the Palace keeper, grabbing the ball. For a few seconds, he looked certain to award a penalty. In the end a VAR review ruled that there was no handball on the way via Jean-Philippe Mateta. 

South London blew a huge sigh of relief, but Benítez was suddenly in the middle of complete chaos, with home fans reacting to the decision by throwing cups onto the pitch towards his goal. With the stadium reaching boiling point a cool head was needed. Thankfully the man between the sticks wasn’t flustered in the slightest. 

“I remember just being very surprised when I saw him [the referee] take the ball,” reflects Benítez. “When I saw the situation, I said that it was never a penalty, but it seemed like he had taken a quick decision. 

“We were all very surprised but I just had to prepare myself. There were only a few minutes left so it was a big moment. 

“I was ready, but then the VAR decided it was not a penalty. Thankfully we managed to push on and win the game.”

n the end, despite the odd nervy moment, Benítez was never in real danger of being beaten. Palace held on and sealed a place in the last eight of the Conference League after the toughest assignment so far at that point. 

Those present will testify it was a hostile atmosphere. But when it comes to playing in front of those crowds, Benítez has plenty of experience up his sleeve. Born in the city of General San Martín in January 1993, Benítez’s break in professional football came with Quilmes Atlético Club in Buenos Aires – the oldest club in the Argentinian club system.

First signed as a youth player in 2011, he would turn professional and make his senior debut in the 2013/14 season. As a youngster, playing in Argentina’s top division – particularly as a goalkeeper – could prove intimidating for some. But it also builds character. 

“They [the Larnaca] fans were angry, but I’ve had that before,” he laughs. “It’s often like that in Argentina. 

“Sometimes when you play in their stadium, this is part of the game. You have to expect it in a close match. 

“They want to push you as players and get a reaction. So it’s important you stay focused, particularly as a goalkeeper. But as you get older you get used to this situation.”

The Conference League has played a big part in Benítez's Palace story so far, with the Argentinian playing three times en route to the Eagles lifting the trophy last season in Leipzig. 

It also ticked off an impressive achievement. Benítez joining a club of players to play in the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.

Speaking ahead of Palace's victory in Leipzig, Benítez noted: “Each one of those competitions is special. Every game you play in, it feels different.

“This competition has helped me play a little bit more and I’m really happy because my goal is to play as much as possible. 

“It’s the first year of competition for Crystal Palace in Europe. Every game for us is like a final, because we want to finish in this competition as high as possible. 

“It's a big focus for us. I hope we can continue in the competition, reach the final, and ultimately lift the trophy – because that would be a big step for us as a club.

“My hope is that we win that trophy. I think this team, these players, would deserve that. If we can finish the season as high as possible in the league as well, I think that will be a good year.” 

In a career that has already seen him win silverware, and play for Argentina, a European trophy with the Eagles ranks right up there as one of his biggest achievements.

It becomes like home and you can only enjoy it

Like many footballers who come through the system in South America, Benítez was faced with a big decision at the age of 23. Stay in Argentina, or move to European club football? He chose the latter, joining OGC Nice in France. 

Although it proved to be a wise move for his career, Benítez admits it weighed heavily on his heart. “It’s always difficult for a player to leave their home country,” he reflects. “Not because of the football, but because you are leaving your friends and family. 

“Even if you’re not alone, the first time you go to another country it’s always difficult to adapt. You need to learn the culture and everything, so it took time when I first moved to Europe.

“It’s always hard, but we love football which makes it worthwhile. The most important thing I have learnt is to enjoy your environment. 

“You learn as well how important the people around the club are. Like here, everyone is really nice. It becomes like home and you can only enjoy it. 

“Eventually after getting used to it, I didn’t miss home as much. I think it’s similar for a lot of players. 

“But when I first arrived here [at Palace] I was able to get settled with the other players quickly. Also Julian Speroni, for example, was someone who really helped me. 

“Of course, I knew a bit about the club before joining, but it always takes time to feel fully settled.”

But he is pleased with the decision he made. 

“I knew it was a big step,” he added. “To join a big club like this. But I kept thinking it was also an opportunity to play in the best league in the world. 

“Now of course, I know more about the club, I know more about the fans and the people who work here. 

“I’m really proud and happy to have come here and play for Crystal Palace.”

It was on this day (23rd June) a year ago that Crystal Palace announced the signing of experienced goalkeeper Walter Benítez – with the Argentina international later linking up with the squad from 1st July.

One year at Palace: Walter Benítez on sealing silverware in South London

The Eagles head to Italy’s picturesque Lake Como to take part for a pre-season tournament between Tuesday, 28th July and Saturday, 1st August.

**Tickets are [now available to purchase here.](https://tickets.comofootball.com/)**

Palace are to be placed in Group A alongside RC Lens from France and FC Famalicão from Portugal.

The group stage will be played across two evenings, with each group made up of three 45 minute matches. In the event of a draw, the match will be decided by penalty kicks.

Group A will take place on **Tuesday, 28th July**. Palace will open up against RC Lens – as new Manager Pierre Sage faces an immediate reunion with his former side. That game takes place at 19:00 local time (18:00 BST). 

The Eagles will then face FC Famalicão later that evening at 20:30 local time (19:30 BST).

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The tournament will then move into its final stage, with the closing matches completing the competition.

The sides finishing third, second and first in each group will play-off against one another to determine the final standings. These matches will be 90 minutes long.

Remember that all of Palace's matches will also be streamed [**LIVE on Palace TV+**](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/supporters/palace-tv-plus/).

**[Download the official Crystal Palace App for free now](https://www.cpfc.co.uk/news/information/palace-app-upgraded-download-and-use-now/), and be notified when further details are announced.**

Tourist Packages Information

### **What is the Como Cup?**

The Como Cup is part of the Football on the Lake event – Como 1907’s summer football, culture and travel event, created to bring clubs, fans and visitors together in one of the most iconic destinations in the game.

Launched in 2025, the first edition brought Ajax, Celtic, Al Ahli and Como 1907 to Lake Como for the inaugural Como Cup, alongside a wider programme of music, city activations, hospitality and fan experiences.

In 2026, Football on the Lake will return for its second edition with an expanded Como Cup featuring six clubs from across Europe and the Middle East.

Tourism packages, which include tickets to matches, [can be purchased here.](https://comofootball.com/en/tourism-experiences/)

#### **Match Details**

##### **Crystal Palace v RC Lens**

- **Tuesday, 28th July**
- **18:00 BST**
- **Match length: 45 minutes**
- **Live on Palace TV+**
- **Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium**

##### **Crystal Palace v FC Famalicão**

- **Tuesday, 28th July**
- **19:30 BST**
- **Match length: 45 minutes**
- **Live on Palace TV+**
- **Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium**

Crystal Palace will participate in the second edition of the Como Cup, as part of pre-season preparations for the 2026/27 season, with the format now confirmed.

First-team

First-team

World Cup 2026: Sarr scores historic double; Pino makes World Cup debut

One year at Palace: Walter Benítez on sealing silverware in South London

Como Cup schedule confirmed!

GET WORLD CUP READY

7Ismaïla
Sarr

First-team

First-team

World Cup 2026: Sarr scores historic double; Pino makes World Cup debut

One year at Palace: Walter Benítez on sealing silverware in South London

Como Cup schedule confirmed!

GET WORLD CUP READY

7IsmaïlaSarr

7Ismaïla
Sarr