Crystal Palace vs Brentford Preview
- Draw or Palace win
- Over 2.5 goals
Crystal Palace welcome Brentford to Selhurst Park for a tantalising Premier League clash with both sides eyeing key milestones.
Palace are riding high after a string of strong results, while Brentford will hope to turn their fortunes around in the league. Here’s a comprehensive preview of the match.
Crystal Palace: Eagles Flying High
Crystal Palace have been one of the most in-form teams in England recently. Their 2-0 win over West Ham last weekend marked their third successive competitive victory ‘to nil.’
The Eagles have lost just twice in their last 14 Premier League matches (W6, D6), a run that has seen them rise from the relegation zone to within touching distance of the top half of the table.
A win in this match could see Palace leapfrog Brentford, whom they trail by just a point. Oliver Glasner’s side will also have extra motivation as they aim for back-to-back London derby wins in the top flight for the first time since April 2017.
With a rock-solid defence and an attack led by in-form Eberechi Eze, Palace are well-positioned to continue their upward trajectory.
Brentford: Bees in Need of a Buzz
Brentford’s season has taken a dip, with Thomas Frank’s side winless in their last five Premier League London derbies (D1, L4).
Despite their 2-1 victory over Palace in the reverse fixture, their recent form suggests a tough challenge awaits them at Selhurst Park.
The Bees have managed just one win in their last nine matches across all competitions (D2, L6), and their 2-0 loss to Liverpool last round underlined their struggles.
Sunday matches haven’t been kind to Brentford either, with five defeats in their last six Premier League games played on this day. Interestingly, their sole win in that run was the reverse fixture against Palace earlier in the season.
Securing their first league double over Palace since the 1955/56 season would be a significant morale boost, but their six-match winless streak at Selhurst Park (D3, L3) looms large.
Key Players to Watch
Crystal Palace: Eberechi Eze
Eberechi Eze has been the driving force behind Palace’s recent success. He has either scored or assisted in each of his last five games (G2, A3), showcasing his creativity and flair.
Eze also boasts a fine record against Brentford, having scored against them in each of the last two seasons. With his eye for goal and ability to unlock defences, he could be the difference-maker for the Eagles.
Brentford: Yoane Wissa
Yoane Wissa played a pivotal role in Brentford’s 2-1 win over Palace in the reverse fixture, assisting the first goal and scoring the winner.
Known for his late-game heroics, Wissa’s last three goals have all come after the 80th minute. His ability to impact games in the closing stages could prove crucial if Brentford are to turn their fortunes around.
Tactical Insights
Crystal Palace’s Approach
Oliver Glasner has built a well-organised side that blends defensive discipline with attacking flair. Palace’s backline has been resolute in recent games, keeping three consecutive clean sheets.
The midfield duo of Sarr and Munoz provide stability, while Eze and Mateta create chances in the final third. Palace will likely focus on controlling possession and exploiting Brentford’s defensive frailties on the counter.
Brentford’s Strategy
Brentford thrive on physicality and set-pieces, areas where they could trouble Palace. Thomas Frank will look to Norgaard to provide the midfield spark, with Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo aiming to exploit spaces in Palace’s defence.
Brentford’s midfield must battle hard to prevent Palace from dictating the game, while their defence needs to improve its concentration to avoid costly errors.
Head-to-Head Record
- Recent Form: Palace are unbeaten in their last six home games against Brentford (D3, L3), while Brentford won the reverse fixture 2-1 earlier this season.
- Historical Context: Brentford haven’t completed a league double over Palace since the 1955/56 campaign, a record they’ll be eager to change.
Predictions and Final Thoughts
Crystal Palace’s recent form and strong defensive performances make them slight favourites, especially given Brentford’s poor away record and struggles in London derbies. However, Brentford’s quality in attack ensures this could be a closely contested affair.
Predicted Scoreline: Crystal Palace 2-1 Brentford
Eberechi Eze’s creativity and Palace’s defensive solidity should edge out a resilient Brentford side. Expect Wissa or Mbeumo to keep the visitors in the game, but Palace’s home advantage may prove decisive.
Conclusion
This London derby pits two sides with contrasting recent fortunes against each other. Crystal Palace are riding a wave of form, while Brentford are searching for a way out of their slump.
With league positions and local pride on the line, this promises to be a captivating clash at Selhurst Park.
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Crystal Palace v Brentford, 2024/25 | Premier League