Palace secures narrow lead in first leg, courtesy of Mateta's goal against Fredrikstad
In a hard-fought Conference League play-off match at Selhurst Park, Crystal Palace emerged victorious with a 1-0 win against Fredrikstad. The solitary goal came courtesy of Jean-Philippe Mateta, who capitalised on a chance after 20 minutes.
The game started slowly for Crystal Palace, but they began to assert their dominance as the first half progressed. Mateta was instrumental in creating chances, setting up two for his team-mates, and also had three shots during the match, two of which were on target.
Adam Wharton came close to doubling the lead not long after Mateta's goal, but his shot was saved by the goalkeeper. Daniel Munoz also hit the right upright from a Jefferson Lerma cross, while Justin Devenny headed wastefully wide shortly after the restart.
Defensively, Crystal Palace were solid, with Solomon Owusu clearing a ball off the line after Ismaila Sarr's header was parried by Martin Borsheim. Henrik Skogvold had a late chance for Fredrikstad, shooting wide in an attempt to force an equaliser, but it was not to be.
Crystal Palace's manager, Oliver Glasner, will be pleased with the team's performance, especially considering the absence of Eberechi Eze, who is looking set to complete a move to Arsenal. Marc Guehi and Borna Sosa were the only players to have more shots on target than Mateta in the match.
However, the victory comes at a cost, as Crystal Palace were demoted from the Europa League by UEFA due to American businessman John Textor having control or influence at both Palace and Lyon. This demotion will no doubt be a blow to the club, but they will look to bounce back in the Conference League.
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