Football Review | Aston Villa 0 - 3 Crystal Palace

Was this the last game for Marc Guehi?

Crystal Palace overcame the uncertainty surrounding their captain’s future to produce a memorable performance at Aston Villa, with the England centre-back curling a brilliant strike to secure the win.

Author | Peter Jobes

Stadium | Villa Park

Palace players and fans celebrate

Already ahead thanks to Jean-Philippe Mateta’s first-half penalty, Palace’s defence held firm until Guehi capitalised on a loose clearance from Ezri Konsa, finding the top corner from the edge of the box. The goal provided a timely lift as Unai Emery’s side, flat in the opening 45 minutes, were beginning to threaten a response.

Villa were distracted by the impending transfer deadline, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez omitted from the squad amid reported interest from Manchester United. Mateta, who netted 14 league goals last season, opened the scoring in the 21st minute after Daichi Kamada was tripped by Marco Bizot, sending the Villa keeper the wrong way from the spot.

The result was confirmed in the 78th minute when Ismaila Sarr headed home following a long throw that Maxence Lacroix flicked on towards the far post.

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Although Villa dominated possession early on, it was Palace who took the initiative. Sarr had an early chance to double the lead, failing to keep his header down from Daniel Munoz’s cross, and Ollie Watkins came closest for the hosts before half-time, only for Dean Henderson to make a sharp save.

Villa improved after the break, with Henderson again called into action to deny Morgan Rogers, but Guehi’s strike ultimately put Palace on course for their first win of the Premier League season.

The result leaves Palace unbeaten with five points, climbing to eighth in the table, while Villa remain second from bottom with just one point and yet to score.

Palace delighted

Daz, one Palace fan, told London Super News: “Marc Guehi has shown remarkable professionalism and dedication. With the champions reportedly interested, he has remained focused on his performances on the pitch, standing out in contrast to other players making headlines for off-field issues.”

Another fan added: “The players deserve significant credit. Their performance today showed resilience, withstanding periods of pressure and demonstrating the ability to endure challenging moments.”