Mateta Leads Crystal Palace to Commanding First-Leg Victory Over Fiorentina

Jean-Philippe Mateta delivered an inspired performance as Crystal Palace F.C. secured a convincing 3–0 win over ACF Fiorentina in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League quarter-final.

Making his first start since January following a collapsed move to AC Milan, Mateta opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after Evann Guessand was fouled by Dodô.

The striker was again influential in Palace’s second goal seven minutes later, as his close-range effort was parried by David de Gea, allowing Tyrick Mitchell to convert the rebound.

Fiorentina responded after the interval, with Giovanni Fabbian striking the woodwork and Dean Henderson producing key saves to preserve Palace’s advantage. However, Ismaïla Sarr sealed the victory with a late header, ensuring the hosts take a commanding lead into the second leg in Italy.

Elsewhere in the competition, FC Shakhtar Donetsk recorded a 3–0 win over AZ Alkmaar, while Rayo Vallecano eased past AEK Athens by the same scoreline. 1. FSV Mainz 05 also impressed with a 2–0 victory over RC Strasbourg.

Crystal Palace will now look to complete the job in the return fixture, with a place in the semi-finals firmly within reach.