Crystal Palace won their first match of 2023 as late substitute Jean-Philippe Mateta scored with the final kick of the game to give Roy Hodgson a 2-1 win in his first match back in the dugout.
Wilfried Zaha went off with a groin injury in a major blow to the side after a superb first-half showing from him and his side. It got worse when Ricardo Pereira broke the deadlock with a stunner for Leicester just after the interval.
But Palace levelled three minutes after going behind when Ebere Eze’s magnificent free-kick crashed down from the crossbar and crept over the line via goalkeeper Daniel Iversen. Then Mateta struck, and Palace had their first win since New Year’s Eve.
Dom Smith was at Selhurst Park to rate the Palace players…
Vicente Guaita — 6
Smothered at the feet of Patson Daka in the first half, but was largely unneeded in a very impressive Palace display.
Joel Ward — 6
Caught out a couple of times, but largely solid on the right.
Joachim Andersen — 7
His return was felt, as he looked calm and composed in his ever-strengthening centre-back partnership Marc Guehi.
Marc Guehi — 7
Returned from international duty with England, where he didn’t play a minute, to lead Palace from the back. Crucial to their relegation fight for the rest of the season.
Tyrick Mitchell — 6
Wasn’t quick to regain his position, but a more convincing display than he has been able to deliver for much of this season.
Cheick Doucoure — 7
Excellent performance in midfield from a player who has been decent-enough since signing from Lens in the summer but without ever setting the world alight. Ubiquitous here.
Jeffrey Schlupp — 6
A harrying performance in midfield from the man who signed a contract extension this week.
Ebere Eze — 8
Played brilliantly as a No 8, despite preferring the No 10 role. Danced through Leicester’s defence once in the first half, then forced Palace’s equalser with a wondrous free-kick which went in off goalkeeper Daniel Iversen.
Michael Olise — 8 | Star player
A superb showing from a player who has changed his game, hugging the touchline and crossing more these days, but who is just effective as he was last season. Leicester’s defence simply couldn’t contain him.
Odsonne Edouard — 7
Worked tirelessly up front. Led the press, and held the ball up well thanks to an excellent first touch.
Wilfried Zaha (Ayew) — 7
Devastating. Led Palace’s furious attacking start, forcing goalkeeper Iversen into a number of really good saves.
Subs:
Jordan Ayew (Zaha, 45’) — 7
Excellent display, and assisted Mateta’s late winner beautifully.
Will Hughes (Schlupp, 81’) — N/A
Jean-Philippe Mateta (Edouard, 86’) — N/A... although, what a goal.
Subs not used: Sam Johnstone, Nathaniel Clyne, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Luka Milivojevic, Jairo Riedewald, James McArthur
