Mateta Double Lifts Crystal Palace as Tottenham’s Relegation Fears Deepen

Jean-Philippe Mateta struck twice, including a dramatic stoppage-time penalty, to seal a 2-1 comeback victory for Crystal Palace against Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on Sunday, while Tottenham Hotspur slipped deeper into trouble with another defeat.

Palace trailed before Mateta turned the match around, keeping his composure from the spot late on to secure all three points and boost his side’s standing in the Premier League.

Elsewhere, Tottenham’s struggles continued as they fell 1-0 to Sunderland in the first game under new manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian, appointed recently in a bid to steer Spurs away from danger, endured a difficult start as his side failed to find a breakthrough.

Tottenham, now under their third manager this season, remain in the relegation zone and are still searching for their first league win since late December. The North London club faces the growing possibility of a first drop from the top flight since 1977.

Despite a promising start, Spurs were denied an early advantage when a penalty decision was overturned following a VAR review. Goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky produced a crucial save before half-time to keep his side in the contest, while Sunderland’s Robin Roefs also impressed at the other end.

The decisive moment came just after the hour mark when Nordi Mukiele’s effort deflected heavily off Micky van de Ven and looped into the net, giving Sunderland the lead. Tottenham pushed forward in search of an equaliser, with substitutes introduced to add urgency, but they were unable to break through. A late effort from Pedro Porro was tipped over, ensuring Sunderland held on for the win.

The result leaves Tottenham two points adrift of safety, behind West Ham United, with six matches remaining in the season.

In another key fixture, Nottingham Forest drew 1-1 with Aston Villa at the City Ground. Villa, managed by Unai Emery, took the lead through an own goal before Forest responded with a strike from Neco Williams.

At the top of the table, Manchester City have an opportunity to close the gap on leaders Arsenal, who suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday. With crucial fixtures ahead, the title race remains tightly contested as the season enters its final stretch.