Ismaila Sarr sets UEFA Conference League record as Crystal Palace win in semi-final first leg

Ismaïla Sarr made European history after scoring the fastest goal ever recorded in the UEFA Europa Conference League during Crystal Palace F.C.’s impressive 3-1 away victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of the semi-finals.

Playing at Shakhtar’s current home ground, the Henryk Reyman Stadium, Sarr struck after just 21 seconds, finishing brilliantly after a pass from Jean-Philippe Mateta.

According to Opta Sports, the Senegalese winger’s goal is officially the quickest in Conference League history.

Sarr’s strike gave early advantage to Palace but Shakhtar responded early in the second half through Oleg Ocheretko in the 47th minute. However, Crystal Palace regained advantage as Daichi Kamada restored their lead in the 58th minute with a second goal, before Jørgen Strand Larsen sealed the victory with a late strike in the 84th minute.

The second leg will take place next Thursday at Selhurst Park, where Palace will look to complete their journey to the final.

Awaiting the winner on May 27 is a place in the UEFA Europa Conference League final at Red Bull Arena Leipzig, where they will meet either Rayo Vallecano or RC Strasbourg Alsace.

Major Advantage for Palace

Crystal Palace now hold a strong advantage heading into the second leg, with Sarr’s record-breaking start helping place the English side on the brink of a historic European final appearance.

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