Sun Feb 02 17:37:58 UTC 2025: **Crystal Palace Stuns Manchester United with 2-0 Victory at Old Trafford**
Manchester, England – Crystal Palace pulled off a stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, securing their fourth win in their last six Premier League matches at the ground. Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a second-half brace, his fifth and sixth goals in as many Premier League matches this season, to seal the impressive win and propel Palace above Manchester United in the standings.
The match saw a flurry of early chances from both sides. Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo came close in the opening minutes, with Garnacho’s shot blocked by Chris Richards and Mainoo’s effort saved by a spectacular fingertip stop from Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson. Palace also had opportunities, with Daniel Muñoz’s header narrowly missing the target and Maxence Lacroix’s shot saved by Andre Onana. Mateta had a clear chance before half-time but his shot went just wide.
The second half continued in a similar vein, with both teams creating chances. The introduction of Ebere Eze for Palace in the 61st minute proved pivotal. His free-kick led to Lacroix’s header hitting the bar, with Mateta reacting quickest to score the rebound. Eze’s influence continued, with another set-piece almost resulting in a second goal for Lerma, only for his header to go wide. Late pressure from Manchester United failed to break down Palace’s resolute defense, which included several key headed clearances and strong saves from Henderson. Mateta sealed the victory with a second goal in injury time, following a well-worked move involving Ismaïla Sarr and Muñoz. The win extended Palace’s unbeaten away run to eight Premier League matches and marked their third consecutive clean sheet on the road. Adam Wharton also made a welcome return from injury in the closing stages.