Mateta Makes Impact on Return as Crystal Palace Take Control Against Fiorentina

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 converted a penalty before Tyrick Mitchell added a second, capitalizing on poor defending by Fiorentina. Ismaila Sarr sealed the win late on, putting Palace in a strong position ahead of the second leg in Florence. The Eagles are now unbeaten in five games and seven Conference League matches. A renewed energy was evident in Palace's performance following a three-week break, with Oliver Glasner's side quick out of the blocks. Fiorentina struggled to cope with the intense start, and their woes were compounded when Mateta slotted home a penalty after a late challenge by Dodo on Evann Guessand. Minutes later, Mitchell netted the second after David de Gea saved Mateta's initial effort. Fiorentina briefly threatened in the second half but failed to test Henderson, and Sarr eventually sealed the win with a late goal. 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 (Mitchell) scored as well.' 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.'