Mateta Scores on Return to Starting Lineup as Palace Thrash Fiorentina

Jean-Philippe Mateta made a triumphant return to Crystal Palace's starting lineup, scoring his first goal since January as the Eagles dominated Fiorentina 3-0 in the Conference League quarterfinals. Mateta, who had not started since January 25, converted a penalty before Tyrick Mitchell capitalized on a defensive blunder by Fiorentina to score the second goal. Ismaila Sarr sealed the victory with a late strike, putting Palace in a commanding position ahead of the second leg in Florence. The win marked Palace's fifth consecutive unbeaten match and extended their Conference League unbeaten streak to seven games. After a three-week break, Palace looked revitalized, with a renewed energy that caught Fiorentina off guard. The Italian side, who are five points above the relegation zone in Serie A, struggled to cope with Palace's intense start. The pace of the game led to Dodo's late challenge on Evann Guessand in the area, resulting in Mateta's penalty. Minutes later, 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 followed up to score. Fiorentina had a brief spell of threatening in the second half but ultimately failed to test Henderson, and Sarr's late goal sealed their fate. In a post-match interview, Mateta expressed his joy 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 (Mitchell) scored as well.' Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner praised Mateta's performance, 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.'