Crystal Palace secured a big win at Old Trafford, beating Manchester United 2-0 on Matchday 24 of the Premier League. The Eagles, boosted by Ebere Eze’s surprise inclusion on the bench, played with determination and strength.
A Fast-Paced Start
Manager Oliver Glasner had expected a tough tactical battle with United boss Ruben Amorim. From the start, both teams attacked aggressively, creating early chances.
At first, United started stronger. Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo linked up well, nearly scoring within five minutes. However, Chris Richards blocked Garnacho’s close-range shot. Moments later, Dean Henderson made a superb fingertip save to deny Mainoo.
Meanwhile, Palace responded quickly. Daniel Muñoz met a Tyrick Mitchell cross with a powerful header but missed the top corner. Soon after, Maxence Lacroix tested Andre Onana, but the United goalkeeper reacted well.
As the first half progressed, Palace created better chances. Then, Daichi Kamada set up Mitchell, whose curling shot deflected off Ismaïla Sarr. Just before halftime, Jean-Philippe Mateta raced onto Jefferson Lerma’s perfect pass. He chipped Onana but watched the ball spin just wide.
Eze’s Instant Impact
The second half began with United pressing forward. Henderson, however, stayed sharp, saving strikes from Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte.
At the hour mark, Eze entered the game. Immediately, he made a difference. Taking a free-kick, he sent a perfect cross to the far post. Lacroix’s header hit the bar, and Mateta pounced on the rebound to score his fifth goal in five league matches.
Shortly after, Palace nearly doubled their lead. Another Eze free-kick found Lerma, but his header rolled just wide. United pushed forward again, but Palace defended well. Henderson made key saves, and the backline stayed strong.
Muñoz and Mateta Seal the Win
In the final minutes, Adam Wharton returned from injury. Just after, Sarr played a precise pass to Muñoz. The Colombian lifted his head and squared the ball to Mateta, who fired home his second goal.
Palace on the counter 🤤💨#CPFC // #MUNCRY pic.twitter.com/M8k5GydXTf
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) February 2, 2025
Even though United kept attacking, Marc Guéhi made a crucial clearance. As a result, Palace secured their third consecutive away clean sheet and extended their unbeaten road streak to eight matches.
Muñoz’s Growing Influence
Daniel Muñoz played a key role. His assist for Mateta’s goal marked his third of the season. In addition, he now has 43 appearances for Palace and continues to impress.
Since joining, Muñoz has grown in importance. This season, he has played 1,986 Premier League minutes, surpassing last season’s 1,440. Now, he aims to beat his four-assist record from last year.
Lerma’s Steady Presence
Likewise, Jefferson Lerma also made an impact. He has now played 1,295 minutes in 19 league matches this season. After missing two months with a hamstring injury, he is regaining form.
Although he has played fewer minutes than last year, Lerma is improving at the right time. He hopes to be in top shape for Colombia’s upcoming FIFA matches against Brazil and Paraguay.
What’s Next?
With this win, Palace moves closer to European qualification. Up next, they face Doncaster Rovers in the FA Cup fourth round. The Eagles will aim to keep their momentum going under Glasner’s leadership.
All in all, it was a perfect Sunday for Palace fans.
