Oliver Glasner expressed that he sensed “something special” at Selhurst Park as Crystal Palace achieved a 3-0 win over Fiorentina in the first leg of their Conference League quarterfinal.
Jean-Philippe Mateta, who made his first start since January, initiated Palace’s scoring with a penalty in the first half, Tyrick Mitchell increased the Eagles’ lead before halftime, and Ismaila Sarr’s header just before the final whistle ensured that Palace will head into next week’s second leg with a solid advantage.
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Palace displayed a more assured and confident performance on Thursday night in south London, where it seemed that both players and fans were united in their goal to elevate their standards.
“It’s a joy for everyone as long as the European journey continues,” Glasner remarked. “Naturally, Fiorentina is a prominent name, Italian football carries weight, and thus everyone anticipated a closely contested match, while in recent games it felt like a clear win was expected.
“The conditions were different. I believe all of this contributed to a unique atmosphere today, and I think this is the kind of special atmosphere we have always needed. Competing in a European tournament is always significant, especially when it marks the first time in your club’s history.
“Today I sensed that there was something extraordinary, and I think it was a remarkable atmosphere and an exceptional performance.”
Mateta was brought into the starting lineup to replace the suspended JΓΈrgen Strand Larsen and netted his first goal for Palace since New Year’s Day by converting a penalty in the 24th minute.
He nearly scored again seven minutes later, but Palace still managed to extend their lead when Tyrick Mitchell capitalized on a rebound and found the net past David de Gea.
Sarr, who has played a crucial role in Palace’s European campaign, was then set up by an excellent cross from Daichi Kamada and delivered a powerful header into the goal.
Some segments of the Palace fanbase expressed dissatisfaction in January when Mateta indicated a wish to leave, but a move to AC Milan was thwarted due to a knee injury.
Upon his return to action in mid-March, he received a mixed response, but on Thursday night, he was greeted with a warm ovation when substituted late in the match.
“I believe that’s what JP deserves,” Glasner stated. “He consistently puts in 100 percent effort for the team, 100 percent effort for Crystal Palace, and he has scored numerous vital goals for us.
“He went through a challenging period, being unable to train or strike the ball for six weeks, and he worked diligently to return.
“I’m happy for him, I’m happy for Crystal Palace, as he is a fantastic player, a great striker, and we will rely on him.
“I think he will need to rest against Newcastle [on Sunday], but it’s wonderful to have JΓΈrgen Strand Larsen back. Things are looking quite positive at the moment.”
