By Ajileye Temi Kings
Crystal Palace produced a dramatic late turnaround to defeat Newcastle United 2-1 at Selhurst Park, with Jean Philippe Mateta scoring twice to seal all three points.
The game began with both sides showing urgency, but it was Newcastle who struck first just before halftime. William Osula gave the visitors the lead in the 43rd minute, finishing from close range after a well-worked move. The goal came slightly against the run of play but gave Newcastle a crucial advantage heading into the break.
Crystal Palace, however, responded strongly in the second half. The hosts increased their intensity, pushing forward in search of an equalizer while Newcastle struggled to maintain control.
Their pressure finally paid off in the 80th minute when Jean-Philippe Mateta rose highest to head home the equalizer, bringing the home crowd to life and shifting momentum firmly in Palace’s favor.
With the game heading toward a draw, late drama unfolded in stoppage time. Palace were awarded a penalty after a foul in the box, and Mateta stepped up once again—calmly converting in the 90+4 minute to complete the comeback and secure a crucial victory.
The late winner sparked wild celebrations at Selhurst Park, capping off an impressive second-half performance from Palace, who showed resilience and belief to overturn the deficit.
For Newcastle, it was another frustrating result. Despite taking the lead, they failed to maintain their advantage and were undone by Palace’s late surge, continuing a difficult run of form.
