Brighton vs Crystal Palace Preview

• Draw or Brighton win
• Over 1.5 goals

Brighton and Crystal Palace renew their intense rivalry on Sunday at the Amex Stadium in a match that promises passion, drama, and high stakes.

Brighton will aim to extend their unbeaten home record this season, while Palace are determined to climb further away from the relegation zone.

Brighton: A Fortress at the Amex

Brighton enter this clash looking to secure a third consecutive home league win over Crystal Palace, a feat they haven’t achieved since their dominant run between 1979 and 1988.

However, their confidence may have taken a hit after conceding two late goals in a 2-2 draw with Leicester last week, marking a winless streak of three games (D2, L1).

Despite this recent dip, the Seagulls remain one of three Premier League sides yet to taste defeat at home this season (W3, D4).

Under Fabian Hürzeler, Brighton have developed a reputation for resilience, but their tendency to falter against bottom-four teams has been a concern, as evidenced by five consecutive home draws against such opponents.

Key Player: Lewis Dunk

The Brighton captain scored in the last H2H, a commanding 4-1 victory in February, but also carries a fiery history in this fixture, with two of his five career red cards coming against Palace. His leadership and defensive solidity will be crucial in this heated encounter.

Crystal Palace: Climbing Out of Danger

Crystal Palace arrive at the Amex unbeaten in their last four Premier League matches (W1, D3), showing signs of recovery under Oliver Glasner.

The Eagles held reigning champions Manchester City to a 2-2 draw last weekend, but their inability to hold onto leads has been a recurring issue.

Palace’s recent away form offers a glimmer of hope, with their current three-match unbeaten run on the road (W1, D2) their best since early 2022.

However, their H2H record against Brighton is less encouraging; they have failed to win any of their last six encounters at any venue (D4, L2). Achieving back-to-back away wins for the first time since April 2023 would be a significant boost for the visitors.

Key Player: Will Hughes

The industrious midfielder has faced Brighton more than any other opponent (17 matches) and is coming off a standout performance against Manchester City, where he provided two assists. His creativity will be pivotal as Palace look to break their winless streak against their rivals.

Tactical Battle

Brighton are likely to dominate possession and press high, utilising their creative midfielders and wide players to stretch Palace’s defence. Hürzeler’s side will aim to exploit set-pieces, where Dunk’s aerial prowess could be decisive.

Palace, meanwhile, will look to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. Glasner’s side demonstrated their ability to disrupt even the best teams in their draw with City, and they will rely on Hughes’ creativity and the pace of their attackers to threaten Brighton’s backline.

What’s at Stake

For Brighton, this is an opportunity to regain momentum and solidify their standing as one of the Premier League’s most consistent home sides. A win would also maintain their push for a European qualification spot.

For Palace, avoiding defeat is critical to keeping distance from the relegation zone. A victory would not only boost morale but also signal that Glasner’s methods are taking root as they aim to turn their season around.

Head-to-Head Insights

• Brighton are unbeaten in their last six meetings with Crystal Palace (W2, D4).
• Palace haven’t won at the Amex in their last five league visits (D4, L1).
• The Eagles have been more resilient on the road recently, going unbeaten in three consecutive away matches.

Prediction: Brighton 2-1 Crystal Palace

This clash promises to be a fiercely contested affair, with Brighton’s strong home form pitted against Palace’s newfound resilience. While the Seagulls’ dominance at the Amex gives them an edge, Palace’s ability to disrupt higher-placed teams adds an element of unpredictability.

As Brighton and Palace prepare to lock horns, fans can expect a heated rivalry match full of intensity and critical moments. Will Brighton defend their home fortress, or can Palace rise above their struggles to claim a crucial victory? The stage is set for an exciting showdown.

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Brighton v Crystal Palace, 2024/25 | Premier League