Ismaila Sarr scored after just 21 seconds, the fastest goal in the history of the Conference League, as Crystal Palace took a commanding 3-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of their semi-final tie.
Record-Breaking Start
The Senegal international struck within the opening half-minute at the Henryk Reyman Municipal Stadium in Krakow, where Shakhtar have been playing their home European matches due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The early goal set the tone for a dominant display from the Eagles, who now have one foot firmly in the final.
Second-Half Drama
Shakhtar fought back after the interval, with Oleh Ocheretko levelling the score just two minutes into the second half. However, Crystal Palace regained the lead before the hour mark through an unlikely source: Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada, who fired home to put the visitors back in front.
Kamada then turned provider, setting up substitute Jorgen Strand Larsen for a late third goal with six minutes remaining. The Norwegian striker's strike gave Palace a comfortable two-goal cushion heading into the second leg.
The victory puts Crystal Palace in a strong position to reach the final in Leipzig, with the return leg set to be played at Selhurst Park next week.
