Senegalese media share verdict on Ismaila Sarr after Crystal Palace star shines in 5-0 win
Ismaila Sarr Shines for Senegal as Crystal Palace Star Scores Twice in World Cup Qualifier
Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr is making the most of his time away on international duty, starring for Senegal in their dominant 5-0 victory over South Sudan in Friday’s FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The Saint-Louis-born forward netted twice in a performance that stood out even among a star-studded Senegal side featuring Sadio Mané, Iliman Ndiaye, Idrissa Gueye, and Nicolas Jackson.
Sarr Named Man of the Match by Senegalese Media
Local outlet Seneweb hailed the Palace No.7 as Man of the Match, awarding him an 8/10 rating for his display. Describing his performance, they wrote:
“After a hesitant start, Sarr began the Lions’ attacking display by opening the scoring in the 26th minute. He added a second after the break with a superbly worked team move. Like Mané, he was rested after the hour mark.”
Seneweb’s headline labeled Sarr as “brilliant,” praising how brightly he “shone” against South Sudan. His early substitution after 60 minutes will also please Oliver Glasner, as it keeps the winger fresh ahead of Palace’s next Premier League fixtures.
Palace Reaping the Rewards of a Bargain Signing
It’s remarkable to think that Dougie Freedman secured Sarr’s signature from Marseille for just £12.7 million in August 2024 — a fee that now looks like a masterstroke.
Since arriving at Selhurst Park, the pacey forward has produced 16 goals and 10 assists in 56 appearances, including memorable braces against Brighton at the Amex and Aston Villa in the FA Cup semi-final.
Given his current form for both club and country, Sarr has arguably become Senegal’s attacking talisman, even ahead of Jackson — who is currently on loan at Bayern Munich from Chelsea, with a £70 million option to buy.
If transfer interest arises, Steve Parish would be well within his rights to point to a similar figure as Sarr’s valuation.