Mateta Makes Instant Impact as Crystal Palace Thrash Fiorentina 3-0

Jean-Philippe Mateta celebrated his first start since January with a goal as Crystal Palace dominated Fiorentina 3-0 in the Conference League quarter-final first leg. Mateta broke the deadlock from the penalty spot after a late challenge by Dodo on Evann Guessand, before Tyrick Mitchell doubled the lead following a defensive blunder by the visitors. Ismaila Sarr sealed the win with a late strike, putting Palace in control ahead of the second leg in Florence. The victory marked Palace's fifth consecutive unbeaten match and extended their Conference League unbeaten run to seven games. A three-week break seemed to have revitalized Oliver Glasner's side, who displayed renewed energy from the start. Fiorentina, meanwhile, struggled to cope with Palace's intense pressure, with goalkeeper David de Gea forced to make several saves. The win was a testament to Palace's determination, with Mateta and Mitchell leading the charge. Mateta expressed his delight at scoring, 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 scored as well.' Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner praised Mateta's performance, saying, 'I think that's what JP deserves. He always gives 100 percent effort to the team, 100 percent effort for Crystal Palace.' With the win, Palace are now favorites to advance to the Conference League semi-finals.