Alkmaar, Netherlands – Troy Parrott delivered a standout performance for AZ Alkmaar, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory over Sparta Prague in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16 tie on Thursday. The Irish striker’s brace gives AZ a narrow lead heading into next week’s second leg in the Czech capital.
Parrott opened the scoring in the 29th minute, finishing off a pass from Ro-Zangelo Daal with a powerful left-footed strike. The goal, his first in the Conference League this season, ignited the AFAS Stadium and set the tone for an attacking first half. Sparta Prague, managed by former Feyenoord manager Brian Priske, responded after the break, with Matyáš Vojta leveling the score in the 50th minute.
However, Parrott proved to be the difference-maker once again, securing the win for AZ with a late goal in the 87th minute. This brings his tally to 26 goals for the club this season and his ninth in European competition, according to reports. The victory marks a positive start to the two-legged affair for AZ Alkmaar, who previously defeated FC Noah in the playoff round to reach this stage of the competition.
Early Pressure and Parrott’s First Strike
The match began with an open and attacking tempo from both sides. Sparta Prague came close to taking an early lead in the sixth minute when a lobbed effort over AZ keeper Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro was cleared off the line by Wouter Goes. AZ responded with a significant chance of their own in the 25th minute, but Denso Kasius’s attempt was thwarted by Sparta goalkeeper Jakub Surovčík.
The breakthrough came shortly after, with Daal cutting inside and finding Parrott in the box. The Irish forward took a touch before unleashing a hard shot high into the net, giving Surovčík no chance. The goal was a testament to Parrott’s clinical finishing and AZ’s attacking intent.
Second-Half Response and Parrott’s Decisive Goal
Sparta Prague emerged from the halftime break with renewed determination, and their efforts paid off in the 50th minute when Vojta found the back of the net. However, AZ Alkmaar refused to be denied, and continued to press for a winner.
The decisive moment arrived three minutes from the end of regulation time. Parrott, once again, found himself in the right place at the right time, capitalizing on an opportunity to slot the ball past Surovčík and restore AZ’s lead. The goal sent the home crowd into raptures and puts AZ in a favorable position heading into the second leg.
Key Stats and Upcoming Fixture
AZ Alkmaar dominated possession with 56.2% of the ball, and registered 7 shots on goal compared to Sparta Prague’s 3. The match, played in front of a crowd of 14,013 at the AFAS Stadion, saw AZ earn 8 corner kicks to Sparta’s 2. Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro made one save for AZ, while Jakub Surovčík recorded 5 saves for Sparta Prague. ESPN reports the final score as AZ Alkmaar 2 – 1 Sparta Prague.
The second leg will take place in Prague next Thursday, March 19, 2026. AZ Alkmaar will be looking to protect their lead and secure their place in the quarter-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League. This match is particularly significant for Parrott, as he is likely to face Jaroslav Zeleny, a Czech Republic centre back, who he may similarly encounter in Ireland’s upcoming World Cup playoff against the Czech Republic on March 26th.
The result sets up an intriguing return leg, and AZ Alkmaar will be hoping to build on Parrott’s impressive form to advance in the competition. The team’s performance will be closely watched as they navigate both the Conference League and the looming World Cup playoff.
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