Manchester United supporters were left scratching their heads in disbelief during their clash with Crystal Palace, following a highly contentious decision that allowed Jean-Philippe Mateta to retake a penalty.
Controversy Strikes Before Half-Time
The incident unfolded just before the interval at a sun-drenched Selhurst Park. After a first half of end-to-end action, Crystal Palace were awarded a spot-kick when striker Jean-Philippe Mateta went to ground under a challenge from United's Leny Yoro, which was deemed clumsy by the match officials.
Mateta himself stepped up to take the penalty and initially sent visiting goalkeeper Senne Lammens the wrong way, slotting the ball home to the delight of the home crowd. However, the celebrations were put on hold as the referee ruled the attempt illegal, ordering it to be retaken.
Second Time Lucky for the Eagles
Given a reprieve, the Palace forward showed immense composure to step up once more. He made no mistake with his second opportunity, again beating Lammens to give the Eagles a crucial lead heading into the break.
The decision left the travelling Manchester United fans and players visibly frustrated, creating a major talking point in a tightly contested Premier League fixture. The ruling on the initial penalty kick has sparked immediate debate amongst pundits and fans alike.
