Mateta Nets on First Start Since January as Crystal Palace Dominates Fiorentina

Jean-Philippe Mateta made a triumphant return to Crystal Palace's starting lineup, scoring his first goal since New Year's Day as the Eagles took a significant step towards the Conference League semi-finals with a convincing 3-0 win over Fiorentina in the first leg of their quarter-final tie. Mateta, who had not started a match since January 25, broke the deadlock from the penalty spot before Tyrick Mitchell capitalized on a defensive blunder by Fiorentina to double the lead. Ismaila Sarr sealed the victory with a late goal, putting Palace in a commanding position ahead of the second leg in Florence. This win marked the first time Crystal Palace had scored three goals at Selhurst Park since November, extending their unbeaten run to five games and seven Conference League matches without defeat. The Eagles' lineup consisted of Henderson, Richards, Lacroix, Canvot, Munoz, Wharton, Kamada, Mitchell, Sarr, Guessand, and Mateta, with Pino, Lerma, Hughes, and Johnson coming off the bench. Kamada was named the Player of the Match. Following a three-week break, Oliver Glasner's side showed renewed energy from the outset, a stark contrast to their recent form that had seen them settle for goalless draws in two of their three matches leading up to the international break. Fiorentina, currently five points above the relegation zone in Serie A, struggled to cope with Palace's intense start. The match's pace was set early on, culminating in Dodo's late challenge on Evann Guessand in the area, which led to Mateta's penalty. Shortly after, Daichi Kamada's ball over the top found an unmarked Daniel Munoz, who played it across to Mateta. Although David de Gea saved Mateta's initial effort, Mitchell was on hand to score the rebound. Fiorentina had a brief spell of threat in the second half but were largely unable to test Henderson, aside from hitting the bar, before Sarr sealed their fate with a late goal. In a post-match interview, Jean-Philippe Mateta expressed his happiness, stating, 'What a night. It's been a long time; I didn't play, I didn't start. I'm very happy, and very happy my guy (Mitchell) scored as well.' He also shared his dream of scoring and appreciated the support of the fans, emphasizing the importance of the win but noting that the job is not yet finished. Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner praised Mateta, saying, 'I think that's what JP deserves. He always gives 100 per cent effort to the team, 100 per cent effort for Crystal Palace.' Glasner highlighted Mateta's hard work during his tough period and his importance to the team, mentioning that he will need rest but looking forward to having Jorgen Strand Larsen back. The manager also commended his team's performance, especially in the first half and the final 20 minutes, acknowledging a brief period of struggle after halftime when Fiorentina started more aggressively.