Keith Hackett, former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, has criticized the decision to award Crystal Palace a penalty kick in their recent defeat against Manchester United at Selhurst Park. According to Hackett, Jean-Philippe Mateta deceived referee Robert Jones in order to earn the penalty.
Despite Crystal Palace taking the lead with Mateta’s goal from the penalty spot, Manchester United staged a comeback to win the match 2-1, with goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount helping them secure the victory and move ahead of Palace in the Premier League standings.
The controversial incident that led to the penalty saw Leny Yoro allegedly fouling Mateta as he entered the penalty area. However, replays suggested that there was minimal to no contact made by the defender on the striker, leading Hackett to believe that the penalty decision was unjustified.
Hackett expressed his disbelief at the penalty decision, stating that it was a clear case of simulation by Mateta to deceive the referee. He also criticized the lack of intervention by VAR in overturning the decision and suggested the implementation of a review panel to address such incidents and potentially issue bans to players found guilty of simulation.
Meanwhile, Mateta, who is still in contract negotiations with Crystal Palace, has been a key player for the club this season, scoring seven goals in 13 Premier League appearances. The French striker’s performance has been instrumental in Palace’s strong position in the league table, with the club currently just four points behind the Champions League places. Despite the controversy surrounding the penalty incident, Crystal Palace remains keen on securing Mateta’s services by offering him a new contract.
