Kick-off: Tuesday, 3rd December 2024, at 19:30 GMT

Ipswich Town host Crystal Palace at Portman Road in a Premier League encounter on Tuesday evening. Both teams are striving to improve their standings, with Ipswich aiming to solidify their position in the top flight and Crystal Palace seeking to climb out of the relegation zone. This match is crucial for both sides as they look to gain valuable points.

Form Analysis: Ipswich Town

Ipswich Town have had a mixed start to their Premier League campaign, currently sitting 18th in the league with 9 points from 12 matches. Their record includes one win, six draws, and five losses, indicating a struggle to secure victories. Offensively, they have scored 13 goals, averaging just over one goal per game, while defensively, they have conceded 23 goals, highlighting vulnerabilities at the back.

In their last five matches, Ipswich have drawn three and lost two. A recent 1-1 draw against Leicester City showcased their resilience, with Conor Chaplin providing the equaliser. However, a 4-3 defeat to Brentford exposed defensive frailties. Key players for Ipswich include Conor Chaplin, who has been pivotal in attack, and Luke Woolfenden, who anchors the defence.

Form Analysis: Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace are enduring a challenging season, positioned 19th in the Premier League with 8 points from 12 matches. Their record of one win, five draws, and six losses reflects their struggles. The Eagles have scored 10 goals and conceded 17, indicating issues in both attack and defence.

In their last five matches, Palace have drawn two, lost two, and won one. A notable 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur demonstrated their potential, with Jean-Philippe Mateta scoring the decisive goal. However, a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest highlighted their inconsistency. Jean-Philippe Mateta has been a key figure in attack, while Tyrick Mitchell has been solid defensively.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Historically, Crystal Palace have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning three of the last four meetings, with one draw. Their most recent encounter in February 1995 saw Palace secure a 2-0 victory at Portman Road. Ipswich’s last win against Palace dates back to April 1993.

Tactical Analysis

Ipswich Town are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on a balanced approach with an emphasis on solid defence and quick transitions. Conor Chaplin will be central to their attacking play, supported by wide players aiming to stretch the opposition. Defensively, Luke Woolfenden will marshal the backline, aiming to maintain organisation.

Crystal Palace are likely to adopt a 4-3-3 formation, aiming to control the midfield and utilise their wingers to create chances. Jean-Philippe Mateta will lead the line, with support from the flanks. Tyrick Mitchell will play a crucial role in defence, looking to contain Ipswich’s wide threats.

Predicted Lineups

  • Ipswich Town (4-2-3-1): Vaclav Hladky – Janoi Donacien, Luke Woolfenden, Cameron Burgess, Leif Davis – Sam Morsy, Massimo Luongo – Wes Burns, Conor Chaplin, Marcus Harness – Nathan Broadhead.
  • Crystal Palace (4-3-3): Sam Johnstone – Joel Ward, Joachim Andersen, Marc Guéhi, Tyrick Mitchell – Cheick Doucouré, Jefferson Lerma, Eberechi Eze – Jordan Ayew, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Michael Olise.

Betting Options and Odds

  1. Draw (Odds: 3.30): Given both teams’ recent form and league positions, a draw appears a plausible outcome.
  2. Under 2.5 Goals (Odds: 1.75): Both teams have struggled offensively, suggesting a low-scoring match.
  3. Jean-Philippe Mateta to Score Anytime (Odds: 3.50): Mateta’s recent form makes him a viable candidate to find the net.

Betting Tip & Prediction: Ipswich Town – Crystal Palace (03.12.2024)

Considering both teams’ form and the stakes involved, a closely contested match is expected. Ipswich’s home advantage and resilience may counterbalance Palace’s experience, leading to a share of the spoils.

Prediction: Draw (Odds: 3.30), with a likely scoreline of 1-1.