Jean-Philippe Mateta played a pivotal role in Crystal Palace’s recent comeback, scoring a late equalizer that secured a valuable result against Newcastle United. The match, which took place yesterday, marked another step in Mateta’s efforts to rebuild his standing with Palace supporters following a turbulent period earlier this year.

Mateta had previously attracted criticism after attempting to leave the club during the January transfer window. However, his performance in the Continental League quarter-final victory over Fiorentina on Thursday, where he also found the net, appeared to signal a turnaround. Palace’s manager, Oliver Glasner, expressed strong support for the forward, highlighting his commitment since the transfer saga was resolved.

“I was delighted for him and that is what he deserves,” Glasner said. “As soon as it was clear that he had to stay at Crystal Palace, he said, ‘OK, I will work very, very hard.’ This is what he has showed and he is now getting back to his top fitness.”

Palace’s resurgence under Glasner has been bolstered by Mateta’s improving form, which helped inspire a comeback late in the match against Newcastle. The draw and the recent positive result in the European competition have offered a boost to Palace’s season, while Newcastle manager Eddie Howe faces continued pressure following the setback.

Howe’s position has been under scrutiny as Newcastle seek to climb the Premier League table, and yesterday’s result has done little to ease the concerns surrounding the club’s trajectory. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace appear to be finding form at a vital juncture, with Mateta’s resurgence emblematic of a squad gaining momentum both domestically and in Europe.