Mateta’s Double Lifts Crystal Palace Above Man United

Jean-Philippe Mateta scores against Manchester United during the Premier League 2024 season

Summary:

  • Jean-Philippe Mateta scored twice to lead Crystal Palace to a 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
  • United suffered a late injury to Lisandro Martinez after struggling offensively, failing to convert chances and continuing their poor form. 
  • United has dropped them to 13th place in the Premier League standings.

Jean-Philippe Mateta delivered a standout performance at Old Trafford, scoring twice to secure Crystal Palace’s commanding 2-0 victory over Manchester United in the Premier League

Ruben Amorim’s side not only faltered on the pitch but also saw Lisandro Martinez sustain a late-game injury.

United’s Offensive Struggles Persist

In search of their first consecutive Premier League wins of the season, Manchester United fell short once again, unable to convert their attacks. 

Amorim’s decision to bench Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee in favor of using midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as a makeshift striker highlighted United’s ongoing offensive troubles. 

While Mainoo created an opportunity for Alejandro Garnacho and struck the post himself early in the game, it did not diffuse. The fact that the team is still lacking a natural forward was dramatically noticeable

In contrast, Mateta’s influence up front was undeniable. His strength and movement consistently trounced United’s defense.

United, Down to 13th Place

United’s inability to score extended a gloomy record. United has not been able to find the net in the first half of 18 different Premier League matches this season.

Crystal Palace knew how to take advantage and show clinical efficiency. The victory saw Oliver Glasner’s side leapfrog their opponents in the table, pushing United down to 13th place.

Despite the setback, Amorim remained resolute in his analysis to Sky Sports. 

The result was really bad, but the performance wasn’t as bad as the last games, We controlled the game and their transitions quite well. We suffered two goals that we can avoid, but we played better than in some games.

The coach, who recently celebrated his 40th birthday, joking that being United’s boss has aged him 10 years within two months.

Amorim acknowledged the possible severity of Martinez’s injury.

It’s hard on us. He’s a great player and a strong character in the dressing room. We have to support him the way he supports us.

Glasner on Mateta: “We Are Delighted With His Form.”

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner praised Mateta’s performance, emphasizing his importance in attack. 

He is where he has to be as a number nine. He makes so many runs where he doesn’t get the ball, but he keeps going. Everything he is doing, he is doing it right now, and of course, we are delighted with his form.

With the transfer deadline looming, Glasner hinted at additional signings.

I think we will have at least one more signing. Maybe a center-back, but let’s see what happens.

Mateta’s two goals at Old Trafford brought his tally to 23 since February 2023, solidifying his position among the league’s top goal scorers.