In a bid to conclude 2023 on a positive note, London rivals Crystal Palace and Brentford will lock horns at Selhurst Park after both endured painful defeats in their midweek Premier League clashes.
Match Preview
Crystal Palace, under Roy Hodgson, suffered a late 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, conceding an 89th-minute penalty. Meanwhile, Brentford faced a devastating 4-1 home loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Hodgson’s Eagles find themselves winless in eight consecutive Premier League games, occupying 15th place, only three points clear of the relegation zone.
On the other hand, Brentford’s form has dipped, losing their last four league matches, leaving them just one point above Palace.
Despite Crystal Palace’s consistent scoring (nine goals in 10 Premier League games), their home form has been underwhelming, earning only six points at Selhurst Park this season.
Brentford, too, has struggled lately, failing to secure a win in six of their last seven league outings.
Team News
Crystal Palace will likely miss several players due to injuries, including Cheick Doucoure, Joel Ward, and Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.
Sam Johnstone’s calf issue might not see him fit for the derby, while Odsonne Edouard and Rob Holding’s availability remains uncertain.
Brentford faces their own injury concerns with players like Rico Henry, Kevin Schade, Aaron Hickey, Bryan Mbeumo, Kristoffer Ajer, and Josh Dasilva on the sidelines.
Ivan Toney and Ben Mee will miss the clash due to suspension, but Frank Onyeka is available after missing the Wolves match.
Predicted Lineups
Crystal Palace: (4-2-3-1)
Henderson;
Clyne, Andersen, Guehi, Mitchell;
Lerma, Richards;
Olise, Franca, Ayew;
Mateta
Brentford: (4-3-3)
Flekken;
Roerslev, Collins, Mee, Ghoddos;
Janelt, Norgaard, Jensen;
Wissa, Maupay, Damsgaard
Prediction: Crystal Palace 1-1 Brentford
Both teams have a history of drawing their encounters, and considering their recent struggles, another draw seems plausible.
Despite Palace’s slight favoritism due to Brentford’s poor form and injuries, the Eagles’ offensive shortcomings at home might allow Brentford to halt their losing streak.