Crystal Palace confidently secured a 2-0 victory against Dynamo Kyiv in the UEFA Conference League opener held in Poland. The match saw Daniel Munoz score a stunning header in the 31st minute, followed by Eddie Nketiah doubling the lead in the 58th minute, with both goals being set up by the outstanding Yeremy Pino.
Despite the success on the field, there was a bit of controversy surrounding Oliver Glasner’s decision to substitute Jean-Philippe Mateta during halftime, especially when the French player had a strong performance in the first half.
However, a reliable source, journalist Bobby Manzi, revealed that the substitution was actually a pre-planned move. He explained on social media: “Eddie Nketiah replaces Jean-Philippe Mateta at the start of the second half. Planned sub. #CPFC”
Speculation arose that Mateta may have been injured, as he had just been called up to the France squad for the first time. Fortunately, it was confirmed that Mateta was in good health, and his absence did not hinder the team as Nketiah scored his second goal in as many games.
Mateta’s impressive form this season earned him a spot in the France squad, where he will reunite with Michael Olise, his former teammate at Crystal Palace. This opportunity to play alongside top talents like Kylian Mbappe under Didier Deschamps is a testament to Mateta’s remarkable progress since Glasner’s arrival, during which he has excelled with 34 goals in 69 appearances, compared to his previous record of 16 goals in 93 games.
