Crystal Palace vs Newcastle Preview

• Newcastle to win
• Over 2.5 goals

Crystal Palace host Newcastle United at Selhurst Park in a Premier League clash that carries significant implications for both teams. Palace aim to climb out of the relegation zone, while Newcastle seek to bounce back from a frustrating defeat and push higher in the standings.

Crystal Palace: Battling Inconsistencies

Crystal Palace have struggled for form, as evidenced by their 2-2 draw with Aston Villa last weekend. That result extended their winless run in the Premier League to three games (D2, L1), with the Eagles conceding exactly two goals in each of those matches.

Injuries have plagued Oliver Glasner’s side, though the promise of January reinforcements might offer hope for a turnaround.

At Selhurst Park, Palace’s performances have been underwhelming. They’ve secured just one win in their six home league games this season (D2, L3) and have failed to score in three of their last four outings at home.

However, their record against Newcastle at Selhurst Park provides some encouragement, having gone unbeaten in the last three H2Hs (W1, D2).

Ismaïla Sarr finally found form against Villa, contributing his first league goal and assist of the season. The Senegalese winger could be vital for Palace, as he hasn’t lost a club game after scoring since the start of last season (W4, D2).

Newcastle United: Searching for Stability

Newcastle come into this game looking to regain momentum after a disappointing 2-0 home loss to West Ham United.

Eddie Howe’s men struggled to break down the Hammers, leaving fans frustrated as the Magpies missed an opportunity to close the gap on the league’s top teams.

Sitting just inside the top half, Newcastle remain in a congested mid-table battle. A win at Selhurst Park could propel them as high as sixth, depending on other results.

However, the Magpies have failed to score in their last six H2Hs against Palace, a drought they’ll need to end to secure three points.

Harvey Barnes is one to watch for Newcastle. The winger has a knack for scoring away from home, with his last three goals all coming on the road. His ability to strike late in matches, including two goals between the 80th and 85th minutes, could be crucial in breaking down a resilient Palace defense.

Key Battles

Ismaïla Sarr vs Newcastle’s Defense

Sarr’s pace and creativity will be a significant threat for Newcastle’s backline. If he can replicate his form from the Villa game, Palace’s chances of finding the net will increase dramatically.

Harvey Barnes vs Palace’s Full-Backs

Barnes’ attacking runs and late-game impact make him a key player for Newcastle. Palace’s full-backs will need to stay alert to his movement, especially as the match progresses.

Tactical Analysis

Crystal Palace will likely adopt a cautious approach, focusing on defensive solidity while looking to exploit Newcastle on the counterattack. With Sarr and Eberechi Eze in their ranks, the Eagles possess the tools to hurt the Magpies on the break.

Newcastle, meanwhile, will aim to dominate possession and create chances through their wide players. Eddie Howe’s side must be patient in breaking down Palace’s defense while remaining wary of quick transitions.

Prediction: Crystal Palace 1-2 Newcastle United

While Palace’s recent struggles at home make this a challenging fixture for them, Newcastle’s need for a response and their attacking quality should see them edge this contest.

Expect Ismaïla Sarr to trouble the visitors, but Harvey Barnes’ knack for scoring on the road might prove decisive in a tight encounter.

This result would keep Newcastle in contention for a European spot while deepening Palace’s relegation worries

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Crystal Palace v Newcastle, 2024/25 | Premier League