Crystal Palace and Southampton face off this Sunday at Selhurst Park in a crucial Premier League clash.
While the Eagles aim to use their home advantage to bounce back from a challenging season, the Saints, rooted at the bottom of the table, desperately seek a lifeline to revive their campaign.
Crystal Palace Recent Form
The Eagles enter this game with mixed results. They have drawn their most recent match against Bournemouth (0-0) after consecutive losses to Arsenal in both the Premier League and EFL Cup.
With only three league victories this season, Palace’s form is far from convincing, though their attack boasts moments of brilliance through players like Eberechi Eze and Ismaila Sarr.
Southampton Recent Form
Southampton remain the league's bottom side, with only one win in 18 games. The Saints are coming off a narrow 1-0 defeat to West Ham and have struggled throughout the season, especially in the final third, managing just 11 goals. New head coach Ivan Juric has his work cut out to inspire a turnaround.
Injury and Team News
Crystal Palace
Out: Matheus Franca, Adam Wharton, Franco Umeh-Chibueze
Doubtful: Will Hughes (fitness issue)
Suspended: Marc Guehi (accumulated yellow cards)
Potential replacements include Chris Richards in defence, while Cheick Doucoure could take Hughes' midfield role.
Southampton
Out: Gavin Bazunu, Ross Stewart, Jack Stephens, Will Smallbone
Key Change: Tyler Dibling could start in the front three as Southampton seek to bolster their underperforming attack.
Last Crystal Palace Lineup
Last Southampton Lineup
Referee and VAR
Referee: Michael Salisbury.
Assistants: Scott Ledger, Derek Eaton.
Fourth official: Darren Bond.
VAR: Graham Scott.
Assistant VAR: Akil Howson.
Crystal Palace Player to Watch
Eberechi Eze: A dynamic force in Palace's attack, Eze has the flair and creativity to unlock Southampton's defence. His form in the final third could prove decisive.
Southampton Player to Watch
Tyler Dibling: The young forward is a rare bright spot for the Saints this season. His inclusion could add much-needed energy and unpredictability to their offence.
Prediction
The Saints may offer resistance and even find the net, but Palace’s superior quality in attack should secure them a vital three points at home.
Our Prediction: Crystal Palace 2-1 Southampton
Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Crystal Palace to Win
With home advantage and better attacking options, the Eagles are favourites to claim victory.
Tip 2 - Both Teams to Score
Palace's defensive vulnerabilities and Southampton’s desperate need for goals suggest an open contest.
Tip - Over 2.5 Goals
The clash is likely to see multiple scoring opportunities, especially if Palace’s attack finds its rhythm early.
