Mateta’s Goal Lifts Crystal Palace Over Tottenham
Spurs head coach Ange Postecoglou, missing captain Son Heung-min, gave 17-year-old Mikey Moore his first league start. It quickly became evident that the hosts were determined to challenge the visitors more than expected. Mateta’s goal came in the 31st minute. Although Brennan Johnson hit the post shortly after, neither team could change the scoreline despite several chances.
⏰ RESULTS ⏰#PL pic.twitter.com/YHhrCfqEG3
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) October 27, 2024
Crystal Palace’s First Win
The three points at home helped Palace avoid their worst-ever start to a Premier League season. They entered the match without a victory in eight games. The hosts began with promise, but both teams struggled to create clear opportunities early on.
Key Moments in the Match
Palace manager Oliver Glasner had to substitute Will Hughes for Jefferson Lerma, who left the field injured in the 22nd minute. Shortly after, Spurs’ Dejan Kulusevski and Pedro Porro both went down but continued after treatment. Maxence Lacroix missed a header, and Ismaila Sarr’s shot was saved before Mateta broke the deadlock.
Spurs allowed Daniel Munoz to capitalize on a loose ball, leading to Ebere Eze setting up Mateta for a low finish. The visitors nearly equalized when Johnson hit the post, but Trevoh Chalobah cleared the rebound.
Second Half Tensions
The second half began with Munoz shooting over the bar. Eze had a goal disallowed for offside after a VAR check. Palace appealed for a penalty when Eze was brought down, but the referee waved play on. James Maddison was denied by Dean Henderson, and Palace had several attempts to extend their lead.
Final Push for Tottenham
Palace protested when Sarr was fouled by Micky van de Ven, but the defender received only a yellow card. Sarr was replaced by Eddie Nketiah after treatment. Postecoglou made substitutions, bringing on Timo Werner, Richarlison, and Pape Sarr to try and salvage a point.
Adam Wharton nearly secured the win for Palace, forcing a save from Vicario and missing from a corner. Spurs increased pressure in stoppage time, with Werner testing Henderson, but the Palace goalkeeper held firm to secure the victory.
Crystal Palace’s win over Tottenham was a significant morale boost, with Mateta’s goal proving decisive. The Eagles will hope to build on this success in their upcoming matches.
