Jean-Philippe Mateta’s Hat-Trick Helps Crystal Palace Salvage Draw

CRYSTAL PALACE, England — Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a stunning hat-trick to help Crystal Palace come back for a 3-3 draw against Bournemouth on Saturday.

The match, held at Selhurst Park, was filled with dramatic twists. Palace trailed by two goals, and again found themselves behind after leveling the game to 2-2. Mateta’s performance was pivotal in securing a point for the team.

Mateta, a 26-year-old France international, had an impressive outing, taking 11 shots, which is among the highest by a player in the league this season. His first Premier League hat-trick raised his tally to five goals from 15 big chances this season, showcasing his ability to score under pressure.

“It’s an important moment for me, and for the team,” Mateta said after the match. “We showed character to come back, and it’s a step forward.”

Palace struggled early on, with Bournemouth capitalizing to take a 2-0 lead. However, Mateta’s two goals in quick succession leveled the game before Bournemouth regained the lead shortly thereafter.

Despite missing a key opportunity late in the game, his overall performance was a bright spot for Palace. No other player on the squad has converted more than five big chances this season, highlighting Mateta’s crucial role in the team.

Bournemouth, on the other hand, is finding their rhythm after a rocky start to the season. They have improved their conversion rate from 36 percent last season to 50 percent this year, although missed opportunities during the match left them frustrated.

With the draw, Palace now sits in mid-table, while Bournemouth remains a point higher in the standings. Both teams look to refine their finishing as they prepare for their respective next matches in the Premier League.