Mateta double fires Crystal Palace to comeback win against Newcastle

Jean-Philippe Mateta came off the bench to score twice and complete a late Crystal Palace comeback in a 2–1 win over Newcastle United at Selhurst Park, deepening the scrutiny on head coach Eddie Howe.

Newcastle had taken the lead midway through the first half through Will Osula, who bundled the ball home after Palace failed to clear their lines. The goal ended Palace’s run of five consecutive home clean sheets in the league.

According to Sky Sports, despite arriving on the back of a commanding 3–0 victory over Fiorentina in midweek, Palace struggled to create early chances, failing to register a shot on target for the opening 30 minutes as Newcastle dominated much of the first half. Howe, seeking a response after the derby defeat to Sunderland, made six changes to his starting XI and was rewarded with a bright opening spell.

But the momentum swung after the break. Mateta, who ended his long goal drought on Thursday night, made an immediate impact after coming on. Just minutes after his introduction, he rose to head in the equaliser and lift the atmosphere inside Selhurst Park.

Palace pushed for a winner and were rewarded deep into stoppage time when they were awarded a penalty. Mateta stepped up and calmly slotted home to complete the turnaround.

For Newcastle, the defeat continues a worrying trend. Howe’s side have now dropped 25 points from winning positionsthis season — more than any other Premier League team — and have failed to win six of their last nine league matches. Their hopes of securing European football are fading fast as inconsistency continues to undermine their campaign.

Palace, meanwhile, continue their resurgence under new guidance, while Mateta’s return to form offers a timely boost heading into the final stretch of the season.

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