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Matheus Franca's late goal denies Southampton rare victory

Matheus Franca's late goal denies Southampton rare victory

Matheus Franca's last-minute goal for Crystal Palace prevented Southampton from securing only their third victory in the Premier League this season, putting them in danger of an unfavorable record.

Franca, who came on as a substitute, scored a late header to earn a 1-1 draw for the Eagles. This result means that Southampton could face relegation over the weekend if they lose to Tottenham and Wolves defeat Ipswich.

If Southampton's relegation is confirmed on Sunday, they will become the first team to be relegated with seven games remaining in the season.

In comparison, even the 2007-08 Derby side, known as one of the worst Premier League teams, had six matches left at the time of their relegation, as did Huddersfield in 2019 and Sheffield United four seasons ago.

Southampton did manage to reach double digits in points for the season with this draw, but they are still one point away from matching Derby's record-low tally of 11 points.

Crystal Palace came into the match on the back of a five-game winning streak and the confidence of reaching the FA Cup semi-finals. This impressive form has led to rumors linking manager Oliver Glasner with a move to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig.

Seeking their seventh consecutive away win, Palace almost opened the scoring within the first 90 seconds as Jean-Philippe Mateta hit the underside of the crossbar from long range.

Having not conceded an away goal since Christmas, Palace were surprised when Southampton took the lead in the 20th minute.

Mateus Fernandes combined with Flynn Downes on the right flank before delivering a cross for the 6ft 7ins striker Onuachu to score with a header.

As the home fans sang "We are staying up," the Palace supporters responded with "Say hello to Millwall."

In the 35th minute, Mateta came close to equalizing with a low shot that was saved by Aaron Ramsdale.

In the second half, Ismaila Sarr set up Eberechi Eze, but the forward's shot hit the side-netting.

Eze missed a free-kick after being fouled by Downes, and Nketiah's rebound attempt was stopped by Ramsdale.

There were groans from the crowd when eight minutes of stoppage time were announced, and Palace took advantage by scoring the equalizer.

Jefferson Lerma's cross was met by Franca, whose header slipped past Ramsdale and into the net.

Palace came close to scoring a late winner, but Nketiah's shot went just over the crossbar.