Jørgen Strand Larsen was delighted to open his 2026/27 account with two headers as Crystal Palace defeated Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup at Selhurst Park.
The Norway international converted Óscar Mingueza’s curling cross for the opener before meeting Ben Chilwell’s delivery with a powerful header. Strand Larsen credited both players for supplying the quality needed to punish Middlesbrough in the box, while also highlighting the understanding he already has with former Celta Vigo teammate Mingueza.
Palace’s striker later helped create Daichi Kamada’s outstanding lob, using a clever reverse pass to release the midfielder. Strand Larsen admitted he expected Kamada to score, though he was surprised by the audacious finish that followed.
The forward felt Palace improved significantly after the interval. He acknowledged that the opening half was below the team’s best, with a largely new group still developing its rhythm and understanding, but was pleased that Palace made their chances count in the second period.
Strand Larsen said the result would provide confidence as Palace aim to compete in every competition this season. After the Carabao Cup success, he is now looking ahead to Saturday’s meeting with Ipswich and believes the squad can continue building momentum.
