Match Overview
Crystal Palace experienced a 3-0 defeat against Bromley at Hayes Lane in a pre-season friendly. This match marked the second friendly under manager Pierre Sage. Despite the result, early pre-season games are often focused on building player fitness and integrating new tactical approaches.
Bromley secured their victory with goals from Victor Adeboyejo, who scored twice, and Nicke Kabamba. Crystal Palace created several scoring opportunities but were unable to convert them. The team was level at half-time before conceding three goals in the second half.
Manager Pierre Sage utilised separate teams in each half to assess both senior players and academy prospects. Among Palace’s performers, Eddie Nketiah was noted as a strong presence in the second half, while David Ozoh and Matheus França also showed potential for future opportunities.
Player Performances and Tactical Insights
In the first half, Walter Benítez made a notable save to prevent an own goal, though his distribution was less consistent. Dean Benamar provided width and made positive runs, while Charlie Walker-Smith handled the physical challenge from Michael Cheek effectively. Jaydee Canvot demonstrated comfort in progressing possession.
Matheus França was a lively attacker in the first half, creating a clear chance for Romain Esse. However, Esse missed this opportunity, directing his shot directly at the goalkeeper. Jesurun Rak-Sakyi also missed a clear chance in the first half, appearing to hesitate in his attempt to move the ball onto his preferred foot.
The second half saw Joe Whitworth in goal, who communicated well but faced difficult situations for Bromley’s goals. Tyrick Mitchell delivered a dangerous cross and defended reliably. David Ozoh was highlighted as one of Palace’s strongest performers, contributing to build-up play and carrying the ball forward.
Cheick Doucouré, returning from a long injury absence, appeared to lack rhythm, with some passes going astray. Joel Drakes-Thomas added urgency to the attack, creating a chance that was pulled wide. Eddie Nketiah, despite only playing in the second half, was considered Palace’s best player, holding up the ball well and creating chances.
Rak-Sakyi’s Situation
The handling of Jesurun Rak-Sakyi’s career has drawn attention. After promising loan spells with Charlton in the 2022/23 season and Sheffield United in the 2024/25 season, his career trajectory has been a point of discussion. During his time at Charlton, Rak-Sakyi scored 15 goals and provided eight assists in 43 appearances in League One.
Reports indicate that two bids, each for £15m, were made for Rak-Sakyi in the summer of 2024. These offers were reportedly rejected, despite manager Oliver Glasner not planning to use the winger in the first team for the 2024/25 season. Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder reportedly confirmed these bids, noting significant interest in the player.
Following his loan at Sheffield United, Rak-Sakyi’s subsequent loan to Caykur Rizespor lasted half a season before he moved to Stoke for the second half of the campaign. With only 12 months remaining on his contract, this situation has been described as a missed opportunity for both the club and the player, particularly given the club’s need to manage UEFA’s 70% Squad Cost Ratio.
Other friendly results from July 25th included Konyaspor 0, Hull City 3; Osijek 1, Rizespor 3; and Consadole Sapporo 1, Nagoya Grampus 0.
Source: bbc.co.uk
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
