Striker Scores in First Start Since January Exit Collapse

Mateta’s Goal Drives Crystal Palace to Victory

Jean-Philippe Mateta marked his return to the starting lineup with a goal, leading Crystal Palace to a commanding 3-0 win over Fiorentina in the first leg of their Conference League quarter-final.

Match Highlights

The French forward, making his first start since January, stepped in for the suspended Jorgen Strand Larsen as he spearheaded the attack at Selhurst Park.

Key Moments

• 24th Minute: Mateta converted a penalty to put Palace ahead.
• 31st Minute: Tyrick Mitchell doubled the score by capitalizing on a rebound from Mateta’s attempt.
• 90th Minute: Ismaila Sarr sealed the victory with a goal just before the final whistle.

Mateta had previously stirred discontent among Palace supporters after his bid to join AC Milan fell through in January. He made his comeback from a knee injury mid-March.

Despite receiving a lukewarm welcome upon his return, he garnered warmer applause when substituted later in the match.

Starting Lineup Adjustments

Daniel Munoz and Dean Henderson also returned to the starting lineup after missing the second leg of their last-16 encounter against AEK Larnaca.

Match Analysis

Early Chances and the Penalty

Mateta created the first significant opportunity just seven minutes in, heading a cross from Munoz wide of the post. Fiorentina’s Robin Gosens responded with a near miss for the visitors. The score remained level until the 20-minute mark when Palace earned a penalty after Dodo fouled Guessand. After a lengthy VAR review, Mateta confidently converted the penalty, rolling the ball into the center of the net past a diving David De Gea.

Building Momentum

The opening goal seemed to invigorate Palace, as they quickly increased their lead. After Mateta nearly scored from an acrobatic Munoz cross, the ball rebounded favorably for Mitchell, who struck to double the advantage. His goal was confirmed after another VAR check.

Second Half Action

De Gea remained busy in the goal for Fiorentina, with the first half transitioning to the second without any let-up. Palace supporters filled the air with streamers before the match resumed, needing De Gea’s assistance to tidy up.

Both teams came close early in the second half; Giovanni Fabbian hit the crossbar for Fiorentina, while Mateta’s effort went marginally wide in the later stages of the match.

Closure with a Third Goal

Palace secured their third goal in injury time, as a precise cross from Kamada found Sarr, who finished powerfully past De Gea, establishing a solid lead to carry into the second leg.