Crystal Palace Claims Top Spot in Premier League International Cup Group with Victory Over Monaco
2 min read
In a chilly evening match at the VBS Community Stadium, Crystal Palace Under-21s surged to the summit of Group C in the Premier League International Cup by defeating AS Monaco 3-1. Matheus França, Malcolm Ebiowei, and Roshaun Mathurin found the net, securing a crucial three points for Palace.
Summary:
- França, Ahamada, and Matthews were part of the starting lineup with six changes.
- Palace threatened early with two corners.
- França scored with a near-post flick 15 minutes into the game.
- Ebiowei doubled the lead with a stunning strike after half an hour.
- Imray and Ola-Adebomi came close to adding a third before halftime.
- Halftime score: Palace 2-0 Monaco.
- Matthews made key saves, and Ebiowei attempted a long-range effort.
- Bery’s free-kick was tipped behind by Matthews.
- Baglieri pulled one back for Monaco in the 83rd minute.
- Mathurin sealed the victory for Palace in a late counter.
- A member of Monaco’s coaching staff received a red card.
- Full-time score: Palace 3-1 Monaco.
Following the October international break, Palace’s Under-21s, led by head coach Darren Powell, returned to Premier League International Cup action. The match against Group C leaders AS Monaco took place at Sutton United’s VBS Community Stadium.
New signing Matheus França, who recently made his first-team debut, was among the six changes in Powell’s lineup, which included Remi Matthews in goal and Naouirou Ahamada in midfield.
Backed by a passionate crowd in Sutton, Palace dominated early on. França’s goal, 15 minutes in, set the tone for the match. Ebiowei’s well-placed ball found França, who guided it past Monaco’s goalkeeper.
The Eagles continued to press, with Ahamada and Ebiowei posing threats. Ebiowei doubled the lead with a brilliant effort after a pass from Captain Seán Grehan. Palace almost added a third before halftime, with Imray and França coming close.
Monaco sought a comeback in the second half, with Matthews making crucial saves. Ebiowei attempted a long-range shot, and Bery’s free-kick was denied by Matthews. Baglieri scored a penalty for Monaco in the 83rd minute, but Mathurin secured the win for Palace just before stoppage time.
The victory propelled Palace to the top of Group C, providing a strong start to their Premier League International Cup campaign.
