Crystal Palace made it four wins in five games across all competitions after Jean-Philippe Mateta scored in the second half to help the Eagles secure a 2-0 win away to Manchester United, extending their unbeaten run against them to four games.
United started quickly and looked determined to score early, but once again, poor finishing let them down. Alejandro Garnacho was the biggest threat for United, cutting inside from the left, but his shot was brilliantly blocked by Chris Richards. United kept pressing, with neat spells of possession, and came close to scoring when Kobbie Mainoo’s shot hit the left post.
Palace began to grow into the game, putting United under pressure. In their first real chance, Tyrick Mitchell’s cross was headed wide by Daniel Muñoz, and Maxence Lacroix had a shot saved by André Onana. Mitchell himself nearly scored when he capitalised on a mistake by Lenny Yoro, but his shot was deflected wide.
Palace were on top as the first half ended, with Mateta powering through the United defence, past Harry Maguire, but his chip was tipped wide by Onana. United came out stronger in the second half, playing on the counter-attack, and almost took the lead when Amad Diallo broke forward and set up Bruno Fernandes, but his shot was well saved by Dean Henderson.
Palace regained control as the half went on, with Muñoz and Mateta causing problems for United’s defence. Mateta, who has been a key player for Palace since Oliver Glasner took over in February 2024, made it 22 goals in 37 appearances when he tapped in after Lacroix’s header hit the crossbar.
United manager Ruben Amorim brought on Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee in an attempt to turn things around, but things got worse when Lisandro Martínez had to be stretchered off. Mateta then scored again, finishing simply after Muñoz set him up. This defeat meant Amorim was denied his first back-to-back league wins since taking charge of United. The victory lifted Palace above United in the league table, moving them into 12th place.
