Mateta Scores on Return to Starting Lineup as Crystal Palace Dominates Fiorentina

Jean-Philippe Mateta marked his return to Crystal Palace's starting lineup with a goal, his first since New Year's Day, as the team secured a 3-0 win over Fiorentina in the Conference League quarterfinals. Mateta converted a penalty kick before Tyrick Mitchell added a second goal, capitalizing on a defensive mistake by Fiorentina. Ismaila Sarr sealed the victory with a late goal, putting Crystal Palace in a strong position ahead of the second leg in Florence. The win extends Crystal Palace's unbeaten run to five games and seven Conference League matches without a loss. After a three-week break, Crystal Palace displayed renewed energy, overwhelming Fiorentina from the start. The visitors struggled to cope with the hosts' intense pace, which led to Dodo's late challenge on Evann Guessand and Mateta's subsequent penalty kick. Daichi Kamada's pass found Daniel Munoz, who set up Mitchell for the second goal after David de Gea saved Mateta's initial effort. Fiorentina had a brief spell of pressure in the second half but failed to test Henderson significantly before Sarr scored the third goal. Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta expressed his happiness with the win, 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.' Mateta also praised the team's effort, saying, 'They know me, I keep working hard. I'm always here to hope for the victory. Today we did it. It's not finished, we have one more game in Italy.' 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.' Glasner added, 'It was a great performance from my team, especially in the first half and from minute 70 until the end.'