SBOTOP Crystal Palace 4-0 Norwich City: Eagles Soar to First Win of the Season and Progress in Carabao Cup

Crystal Palace secured their first victory of the season in emphatic style, dismantling Norwich City 4-0 at Selhurst Park to advance to the third round of the Carabao Cup. The Eagles, led by impressive performances from Daichi Kamada, Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Eberechi Eze, delivered a commanding display that will boost their confidence as they seek to build momentum in the early stages of the campaign.

Kamada Strikes Early

Crystal Palace wasted no time in asserting their dominance, taking the lead within the first two minutes of the match. Daichi Kamada, the Japanese international who joined Palace in the summer, opened his account for the club in fine fashion. The goal was a result of quick thinking and precise execution as Jean-Philippe Mateta played a well-timed pass into Kamada’s path. With only Norwich goalkeeper George Long to beat, Kamada showed great composure, rounding the keeper before slotting the ball into the empty net. The early strike set the tone for the rest of the match and provided Palace with the perfect start.

Norwich’s Response and Palace’s Control

Norwich City, despite being stunned by the early goal, did not back down and nearly found an equalizer midway through the first half. Gabriel Forsyth came closest for the visitors, striking the outside of the post with a powerful effort that had Palace goalkeeper Sam Johnstone beaten. It was a warning sign for the Eagles, who had to remain vigilant against a Norwich side eager to claw their way back into the contest.

Palace, however, continued to control the tempo of the game, with Eberechi Eze and Mateta at the heart of their attacking efforts. Eze, in particular, was a constant threat, weaving through Norwich’s defense with his skillful dribbling and creative play. Despite the setback, Palace remained in control and looked the more likely to score as the first half progressed.

Mateta’s Brilliance in the Game

The second half saw Crystal Palace come out with renewed energy and intent, and it wasn’t long before they extended their lead. Jean-Philippe Mateta, who had been a handful for the Norwich defense throughout the game, produced a moment of brilliance to make it 2-0. Eleven minutes after the restart, Mateta met a cross with an acrobatic finish, sending the ball flying into the net and doubling Palace’s advantage. The Frenchman’s goal was a testament to his technical ability and provided a cushion that allowed Palace to play with more freedom.

Just a few minutes later, Mateta’s struck again, this time with a thumping finish from close range after a pinpoint delivery from Eze. The goal was a product of Palace’s growing confidence and attacking fluidity, as Eze’s cross was met with precision by Mateta, who hammered the ball past Long to make it 3-0. The brace capped off a fantastic individual performance by Mateta, who was a constant menace to the Norwich defense.

Eze Moment of Magic

With a three-goal cushion, Crystal Palace continued to dominate proceedings, but there was still time for one more moment of magic. In the 87th minute, Eze embarked on a mazy run from midfield, gliding past several Norwich defenders before coolly finishing past Long to make it 4-0. The goal was a fitting reward for Eze, who had been at the heart of everything positive for Palace throughout the match.