Match Preview & Analysis
Crystal Palace Set to Extend Unbeaten Run Against Fulham at Selhurst Park
The first day of the new year brings an exciting fixture in the Premier League as Crystal Palace hosts Fulham at Selhurst Park. With both teams looking to start 2026 on a high note, the stakes are high in this London derby. Crystal Palace, having shown resilience in their recent outings, will be looking to build on their current form. Meanwhile, Fulham will be seeking to bounce back from their inconsistent run of results. As the two teams clash, it will be a battle of tactics, skill, and determination.
Match Details
- Competition: Premier League
- Venue: Selhurst Park, London
- Kick-off: 17:30 UTC
- Referee: None
Current Form
Crystal Palace's recent form has been a mixed bag, with their last few matches showcasing their ability to both win and lose against tough opponents. Their record stands at DDWDWWLDLWDWLWWLLL, indicating a team that is still finding consistency but has the potential to take down any opponent on their day. On the other hand, Fulham's away form has been DDLWWLLLLWLWWLLWWW, suggesting a team that struggles with consistency but can pull off impressive wins when least expected.Team News & Predicted Lineups
Crystal Palace will be without several key players due to injuries, including R. Cardines (muscle injury), C. Doucoure (knee injury), D. Kamada (hamstring injury), C. Kporha (back injury), D. Munoz (knee injury), E. Nketiah (thigh injury), and C. Riad (knee injury). I. Sarr will also be missing due to international duty. C. Richards is questionable with a foot injury. Despite these absences, Crystal Palace is likely to field a strong lineup, focusing on depth and tactical flexibility.
Fulham, too, faces a similar challenge with injuries and international duty. C. Bassey, S. Chukwueze, and A. Iwobi are all missing due to international duty, while Rodrigo Muniz and R. Sessegnon are out with hamstring injuries. Fulham will need to adapt their strategy to compensate for these missing players, potentially adopting a more defensive approach to neutralize Crystal Palace's attacking threats.
Head-to-Head
The head-to-head history between Crystal Palace and Fulham suggests a closely contested rivalry. Their last meeting resulted in a 2-1 win for Crystal Palace, indicating that they have the edge in recent encounters. However, Fulham's ability to surprise makes this fixture unpredictable.
Tactical Analysis
The match is likely to see Crystal Palace employing their typical wingplay, utilizing the widths of the pitch to stretch Fulham's defense. Fulham, on the other hand, might opt for a low block, aiming to absorb the pressure and catch Crystal Palace on the counter. The battle between Crystal Palace's wingers and Fulham's fullbacks will be crucial, as will the midfield contest where both teams will look to dominate possession and dictate the tempo of the game.
Match Prediction
Given the recent form and home advantage, Crystal Palace is predicted to win this encounter. However, considering the unpredictability of Fulham and the injuries affecting both teams, a double chance bet on Crystal Palace or a draw seems like the safest prediction. The final score could be a closely contested 2-1 in favor of Crystal Palace, reflecting the competitive nature of this Premier League fixture.
Team Form
Crystal Palace
Last 5: WWLLL
Fulham
Last 5: LLWWW
Head to Head
Match Predictions
🏆 Winner: Crystal Palace (Win or draw)
⚽ Goals: -1.5
🎯 Advice: Double chance : Crystal Palace or draw