Kick-off: Saturday, 21 December 2024, at 5:30 PM
On Saturday, 21 December 2024, at 5:30 PM, Crystal Palace will host Arsenal FC at Selhurst Park. While Crystal Palace sit in the lower mid-table, Arsenal aim to solidify their position in the Champions League spots. The Gunners are clear favourites, but Palace have proven to be a tricky opponent in recent matches.
Form Analysis: Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace currently hold 15th place in the Premier League with 16 points. With a record of 3 wins, 7 draws, and 6 losses, Oliver Glasner’s team has had a mixed season. On a positive note, Palace are unbeaten in their last five league matches, earning two wins and three draws.
Their home form at Selhurst Park has been a strength, making them difficult to beat in front of their fans. However, their lack of offensive firepower could pose a problem against a strong Arsenal side.
Key Player: Eberechi Eze is the focal point of Palace’s attack. Wilfried Zaha provides speed and dribbling ability on the flanks, while Joachim Andersen is a key figure in the defence.
Form Analysis: Arsenal FC
Arsenal are currently 3rd in the Premier League table with 30 points. Mikel Arteta’s side has shown consistent quality this season, with 8 wins, 6 draws, and only 2 losses. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last five league matches, recording three wins and two draws.
Arsenal’s attack, led by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, has been impressive, while their defence, anchored by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, has been highly reliable. Arsenal have also performed strongly away from home, and they will aim to continue this trend against Palace.
Key Player: Martin Ødegaard orchestrates Arsenal’s midfield with creativity and vision. Bukayo Saka is a constant threat on the wings, and Gabriel Jesus provides a sharp goal-scoring edge in the attacking line.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Arsenal have the advantage in recent meetings, with three wins from their last five encounters, while Crystal Palace have won once. One match ended in a draw. Arsenal’s strong performance in the previous season included a 2-0 win at Selhurst Park.
Tactical Analysis
Crystal Palace are likely to play in a 4-2-3-1 system, focusing on defensive stability and counterattacks. Eberechi Eze will be key to their transition play, while Zaha will pose a threat from the wings.
Arsenal will stick to their usual 4-3-3 formation, aiming for ball control and quick attacks down the flanks. The Gunners will look to dominate possession early and apply sustained pressure on Palace.
Predicted Line-Ups
- Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1): Johnstone; Ward, Andersen, Guehi, Mitchell; Doucouré, Lerma; Ayew, Eze, Zaha; Edouard
- Arsenal (4-3-3): Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Ødegaard, Havertz; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli
Betting Options and Odds
- Arsenal to Win (Odds: 1.59): Given Arsenal’s form, a victory for the Gunners is highly likely.
- Under 4.5 Goals (Odds: 1.30): Both teams have solid defences, making a low-scoring game probable.
- Both Teams to Score – No (Odds: 2.00): Crystal Palace often struggle to create clear scoring chances against strong opponents.
Betting Tip & Prediction: Crystal Palace vs Arsenal FC (21.12.2024)
Arsenal enter this match as clear favourites. The Gunners are in excellent form and have impressed both offensively and defensively in recent weeks.
While Crystal Palace have shown positive development in their recent games, it will be tough for them to take anything from a team of Arsenal’s quality. The Gunners’ superior attacking options are likely to decide the outcome.
- Our Tip: Arsenal to Win + Under 4.5 Goals (Odds: 1.92)
- Predicted Score: 2-0 to Arsenal
OUR Prediction
Crystal Palace vs Arsenal FC (21.12.2024)
| Arsenal to Win + Under 4.5 Goals | Odds: 1,92 |
