Crystal Palace were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw during their away trip to Istanbul, failing to claim a win against a Besiktas side that was reduced to 10 men. Despite Jean-Philippe Mateta getting on target for the visiting side, Palace could not turn the situation into a victory and ultimately had to settle for a point on the road.
The encounter was notably significant for Mateta, who finally ended a scoring drought that stretched back to the previous campaign. Mateta scored his first goal since last season's UEFA Conference League final, with his finish in Istanbul marking a long-awaited return to the scoresheet following that European final.
However, the overall result leaves Palace with lingering frustration after having to settle for the 2-2 scoreline away from home. Facing a Besiktas team that was down to 10 men presented an opening to take maximum reward, but the hosts held firm to ensure the contest finished level at two goals apiece.
Reflecting on the match in Istanbul, Crystal Palace will see the draw against 10-man Besiktas as a missed chance to take all the spoils. Nevertheless, having Jean-Philippe Mateta back on target for the first time since last season's UEFA Conference League final remains the primary positive to take forward from the 2-2 stalemate.