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Apr 09, 2026

Mateta's brace fuels Crystal Palace's 3-0 first‑leg lead over Fiorentina in Conference League

AI Summary
Jean‑Philippe Mateta opened his first start since January with a penalty as Crystal Palace defeated Fiorentina 3‑0 at Selhurst Park, putting the English side one foot away from a semi‑final spot in their debut European campaign.

Spring brought a burst of optimism to Crystal Palace as they delivered a 3‑0 victory over Fiorentina in the first leg of the Europa Conference League quarter‑final. Forward Jean‑Philippe Mateta opened the scoring from the spot on his first start since the end of January, followed by a second‑half strike from Tyrick Mitchell and a late header from Ismaïla Sarr.

The win marks a dramatic turnaround for a side that had struggled to impress at home in the competition. After a three‑week preparation window, manager Oliver Glasner implemented a disciplined game plan that saw Palace dominate possession and create clear chances, underscoring his reputation for knockout‑stage success.

Fiorentina, who have reached the last eight for four straight seasons and lost two finals, were unable to respond before the break and now face a daunting task in the second leg in Florence. Even after Mateta missed a late sitter, Sarr’s header restored a three‑goal cushion, meaning the Italians must produce a “miraculous” comeback to stay alive.

Mateta’s performance also silenced speculation surrounding his future. The French striker, who failed a medical with AC Milan in January, was greeted with applause after his penalty and could have added a hat‑trick after replacing the suspended Jørgen Strand Larsen.

Defender Daniel Muñoz returned to full fitness after a prolonged knee injury, adding stability to a backline that kept Fiorentina’s attacks at bay. The Colombian’s presence allowed Palace to maintain pressure, with Muñoz delivering an acrobatic assist that led to Mateta’s penalty.

The match also featured a quirky moment when goalkeeper David de Gea had to clear a mass of streamers from his net, a reminder of the passionate Holmesdale End supporters.

Looking ahead, Palace will travel to Florence for the return leg, where they will aim to protect their advantage and secure a place in the semi‑finals – a historic milestone in the club’s first European campaign.