Crystal Palace and Manchester City are set to face off at Selhurst Park in a highly anticipated Premier League clash this Sunday, marking the first meeting since their dramatic encounter in last season’s FA Cup final. In that memorable match, Crystal Palace secured their first major trophy by defeating City at Wembley, with Eberechi Eze’s decisive goal leaving City stunned.
As Manchester City prepares for this rematch, they are eager to settle the score, especially after facing heartbreak in May. Under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, City has undergone a significant summer overhaul, restoring their reputation as a formidable force in the competition. Currently situated just behind league leaders Arsenal, City finds themselves fourth in the Champions League standings, having displayed exceptional form with four consecutive wins. This includes a thrilling victory over Real Madrid midweek, highlighting the offensive prowess of stars like Phil Foden and Erling Haaland. Despite their attacking successes, questions remain regarding their defensive stability.
Crystal Palace, on the other hand, is enjoying a resurgence in form, having clinched three consecutive wins following previous setbacks to Strasbourg and Manchester United. The Eagles sit only five points behind their formidable opponents, which adds to the intrigue of this matchup. Although they have been resilient, their home record this season has been less than stellar, with just two wins from seven matches at Selhurst Park. Remarkably, Palace has accumulated five more points on the road than at home, indicating a need to reclaim their home turf advantage.
In their previous five encounters, the competition has been fierce, with Palace often proving to be challenging adversaries. However, they need to bolster their squad, especially as they face potential absences. Wing back Daniel Muñoz has been ruled out following knee surgery, and while Cheick Doucouré, Caleb Kporha, and Chadi Riad are also sidelined, there is optimism regarding the availability of Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaïla Sarr.
In their anticipated lineup, Palace will employ a 3-4-2-1 formation, with Sam Johnstone in goal and Nathaniel Clyne stepping in for Muñoz, a move that could prove crucial against City’s dynamic attack. With Mateta and Sarr likely to play key roles, Palace hopes to maximize their offensive capabilities despite looming uncertainties around player fitness.
Manchester City, meanwhile, will continue to cope without Rodri, who has struggled with injuries this season, alongside Mateo Kovačić. John Stones is another notable absentee, though a return is expected soon. Guardiola has confirmed only one change from the side that achieved victory against Madrid, underscoring the consistency and stability that have been pivotal to their recent success. City is likely to employ a 4-1-4-1 formation, featuring key players such as Foden, Haaland, and newly integrated talents like Cherki.
While Crystal Palace aims to exploit any defensive frailties in City’s lineup, their struggles at home might prove a significant challenge. With the stakes high and both teams displaying varying degrees of form, fans can expect an exhilarating match. However, predictions lean towards a City victory, with a likely scoreline of 2-0 in favor of the visitors. As the two teams prepare to clash, anticipation builds around this exciting fixture in the heart of London.
