Mateta gives Crystal Palace advantage over Fredrikstad in Conference playoff

Crystal Palace secured a 1-0 victory over Norwegian side Fredrikstad in the first leg of their Conference League playoff match, marking their first European fixture amid the absence of key player Eberechi Eze, who is nearing a £67.5 million transfer to Arsenal. Manager Oliver Glasner expressed disappointment after Eze informed him on match day that he was unfit to play, disrupting the team's preparations.

Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the decisive goal, easing Palace's nerves after a frustrating first half where they struggled to break down Fredrikstad's defensive setup. Despite several opportunities, including hits on the post and near misses, Palace could not extend their lead. The match was played in a charged atmosphere, with Palace fans booing the Conference League anthem due to lingering resentment over the club's controversial demotion from the Europa League.

Glasner, aware of the challenge ahead with the second leg on an artificial surface next week, emphasized the need for reinforcements before the transfer window closes. Although Palace dominated possession and created chances, the narrow margin leaves the tie finely balanced, with Fredrikstad nearly snatching an equalizer in injury time.