Mateta and Olise shine as Crystal Palace secure a 2-2 draw against Manchester City.
In an exhilarating match, Crystal Palace clinched a 2-2 draw against Manchester City, throwing a curveball into the hosts’ title dreams with a last-minute penalty equalizer by Michael Olise.
Olise confidently stepped up from the 12-yard mark, leaving Ederson bewildered, as he converted the penalty earned from a clumsy Phil Foden challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta. This denied City their coveted home league victory streak, which had remained unbroken since November 4.
You Might also Like : Reasons Why Kevin De Bryune is A Manchester City Engine House
City had seemingly secured the win with Rico Lewis and Jack Grealish’s goals, but Mateta’s late contribution, capitalizing on Jeffrey Schlupp’s cross, injected suspense into the game. The climax unfolded as Foden inadvertently fouled Mateta, leading to Olise’s composed penalty conversion and another setback for City in the title race.
As Pep Guardiola’s squad embarks on the Club World Cup journey to the Middle East, they risk trailing by 12 points before facing Everton on December 27. Roy Hodgson’s Palace, boasting a commendable record at the Etihad Stadium, showcased resilience amid City’s home struggles.
Despite City’s dominance in recent encounters, the match revealed vulnerabilities, with defensive lapses costing them crucial points. The game marked the fourth occasion in six Premier League matches that City conceded a late lead, translating to an eight-point deficit in the title race.
Palace’s glimmer of hope came to life when Marc Guehi’s well-executed cross was met by Mateta, triggering memories of their recent successes. The late drama unfolded with Mateta’s accidental clash with Foden, leading to Olise’s nerve-wracking but flawless penalty, delighting the visiting supporters.
The unexpected draw prompted a smattering of boos from the home stands, emphasizing City’s uncharacteristic home struggles after an extended winning streak. As City heads to Saudi Arabia for the Club World Cup, their return to Premier League action against Everton on December 27 looms large.
Crystal Palace, riding the momentum, eagerly anticipates a derby clash against Brighton at Selhurst Park on December 21, with the excitement set to unfold live on Sky Sports at 8 pm.
