Eagles Continue Stunning Form Under Glasner with Dominant 2-0 Victory
Jean-Philippe Mateta‘s red-hot form continued as Crystal Palace delivered another statement performance, defeating Newcastle 2-0 at Selhurst Park in a match that significantly impacts the race for European qualification. The French striker’s second consecutive Premier League brace has now taken his tally to an impressive 8 goals in just 9 appearances under new manager Oliver Glasner – a remarkable improvement on his previous returns under Roy Hodgson and Patrick Vieira.
Tactical Breakdown: How Palace Outmaneuvered Newcastle
First Half Dominance Sets the Tone
From the opening whistle, Crystal Palace established control with an aggressive pressing game that Newcastle struggled to contain. Eberechi Eze tested Newcastle’s defense early with a powerful 25-yard effort, while Mateta came close with a headed attempt from an Eze cross. The Eagles’ high-intensity approach under Glasner was evident throughout, with the midfield duo of Adam Wharton and Will Hughes particularly impressive in breaking up Newcastle’s attacks and initiating quick transitions.
Newcastle’s best first-half opportunity came when Dean Henderson made a crucial intervention outside his box to deny Alexander Isak, highlighting the Magpies’ struggles to create clear chances despite their 11-day rest following a 4-0 thrashing of Tottenham.
Second Half Clinical Edge
The breakthrough came in the 55th minute through a well-worked move between Mateta and Jordan Ayew. The Ghanaian’s perfectly weighted pass split Newcastle’s defense, allowing Mateta to calmly slot home. This marked Ayew’s seventh Premier League assist this season – putting him among Palace’s most creative players in recent history.
Palace could have extended their lead earlier, with Mateta forcing a save from Martin Dubravka and Hughes curling an effort just wide. The hosts eventually sealed the points in the 88th minute when Mateta, completely unmarked, converted Hughes’ squared pass to complete his brace.
Key Talking Points from Selhurst Park
Mateta’s Remarkable Transformation
The French striker’s resurgence under Glasner has been nothing short of phenomenal:
- 8 goals in 9 games under Glasner
- Outscored his totals under Hodgson (5 in 35) and Vieira (6 in 44)
- First Palace player with back-to-back Premier League braces since 2018
“His work rate epitomizes our team spirit,” Glasner told Crickex. “That 20-meter chase to win back possession shows his commitment to the collective cause.”
Newcastle’s European Hopes Take a Hit
The defeat leaves Newcastle seventh, three points behind Manchester United and just two ahead of West Ham. Eddie Howe admitted his side were “below our best levels,” with concerning statistics emerging:
- 8 losses in last 11 Premier League away games
- Fewest shots on target (2) in a match this season except vs Man City
- Fourth London defeat this campaign
Expert Analysis: What This Means for Both Clubs
Crystal Palace’s Bright Future Under Glasner
Former Premier League defender and Crickex pundit Martin Keown observed: “Glasner has implemented an identity in record time. Palace now press with purpose and attack with fluidity – Mateta‘s movement is perfectly suited to this system.”
The Eagles’ remaining fixtures (Fulham away, Man United at home) offer opportunities to finish the season strongly and build momentum for next campaign.
Newcastle’s Growing Away Day Concerns
Football analyst Jamie Carragher noted on Crickex: “Newcastle’s away form is becoming a serious issue. Their European aspirations depend on solving this vulnerability, especially with tough trips remaining.”
With Sheffield United visiting St James’ Park next, Newcastle must respond quickly to keep their European dreams alive.
Match Statistics That Matter
| Metric | Crystal Palace | Newcastle |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 48% | 52% |
| Shots | 14 | 8 |
| Shots on Target | 5 | 2 |
| Expected Goals (xG) | 1.8 | 0.7 |
| Successful Pressures | 78 | 62 |
Looking Ahead: Crucial Fixtures for Both Sides
Crystal Palace:
- May 4: Fulham (A) – 3pm BST
- May 6: Manchester United (H) – Live on Crickex – 8pm BST
Newcastle United:
- May 4: Sheffield United (H) – 3pm BST
- May 7: Burnley (A) – Live on Crickex – 7:45pm BST
This result continues Crystal Palace’s impressive late-season surge while leaving Newcastle’s European qualification hopes hanging in the balance. With Mateta in scintillating form and Glasner’s tactical blueprint taking shape, the Eagles are proving they can compete with the league’s best – a promising sign for next season. For Newcastle, addressing their away form must become the immediate priority if they’re to secure continental football for consecutive seasons.
