Mateta Returns For Crystal Palace As Conference League Last-16 Tie Approaches

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Crystal Palace face AEK Larnaca in the Conference League last 16 first leg at Selhurst Park on Thursday, with Jean-Philippe Mateta available but not fully fit. Oliver Glasner confirmed the striker returns to the squad as Palace attempt to respond to their earlier group-stage defeat by the Cypriot club.

The October loss to AEK Larnaca remains the only occasion an English side has been beaten by opposition from Cyprus in a major European fixture, with the record now standing at W16 D3 L1. Larnaca also arrive with strong defensive form, having produced five clean sheets during this Conference League campaign.

Mateta’s selection offers Palace extra attacking depth, even with restrictions on playing time. Only Ismaila Sarr, with 14 direct goal involvements, has contributed more for Palace this season than Mateta’s 12. The forward came close to joining AC Milan in January, but that proposed transfer collapsed following a failed medical assessment. Glasner outlined Mateta’s comeback and involvement.

"JP [Mateta] started to train with us on Monday this week, and he will be in the squad. Everything goes in the right direction," said Glasner. The head coach stressed that Mateta is not yet ready for a full match, despite making a bright impression since rejoining training sessions.

"No [he is not ready for 90 minutes]he didn’t train for five or six weeks on the pitch, and he’s now back for three days, so no chance [of 90 minutes]. But it’s good to have him back. He showed in training hes always able to create chances, score goals, and that’s why it’s good to have him back."

Glasner has rotated heavily during this European campaign. No side have fielded more players in the Conference League this season than Palace, who have used 31 different footballers. Only Rayo Vallecano, with 10, have recorded more individual scorers than the Eagles, who have seen nine separate players find the net.

Larnaca’s defensive statistics stand out across Europe. The Cypriot side have allowed just one goal in six Conference League fixtures, the lowest figure for any club in major European competition this season. Their five shutouts are already the highest number achieved by a Cypriot team in a single European campaign, underlining the challenge for Palace’s attack.

Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca Conference League form and context

Palace approach Thursday’s tie with renewed belief after a 3-1 victory over Tottenham last week. That league result offers encouragement ahead of another demanding night under the lights at Selhurst Park. Glasner’s team will try to avoid a second setback against Larnaca, knowing their earlier defeat has already secured a place in European history.

The meeting with AEK Larnaca now brings together Palace’s attacking depth, including a limited Mateta, against one of Europe’s most secure defences this season. With squad rotation, strong recent domestic form and clear defensive numbers from the visitors, Thursday’s first leg sets up a measured but intriguing contest in this Conference League last 16 tie.