The upcoming EFL Cup match between Crystal Palace and Norwich City promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams look to advance to the third round.
Crystal Palace, playing at home, will be eager to recover from a slow start in the Premier League, while Norwich City, struggling in the Championship, will aim to secure a morale-boosting victory.
Match Preview
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace Recent Form
Crystal Palace has had a challenging start to their Premier League campaign, currently without a point after losing their recent matches, including a 2-0 defeat to West Ham United.
This poor run contrasts sharply with their strong finish to the previous season, and they will be keen to regain momentum, especially on their home turf where they have previously enjoyed success in the EFL Cup against lower-league opposition.
Crystal Palace Injury News
Crystal Palace is expected to rotate their squad for this cup tie. Young Brazilian Matheus Franca is the only confirmed absentee due to injury, while Will Hughes is set to return from illness.
New signings Ismaila Sarr and Daichi Kamada may feature more prominently, with potential starts given their recent limited involvement in league action.
Norwich City
Norwich City Recent Form
Norwich City has also struggled at the start of the Championship season, failing to secure a win in their opening games, including a recent draw against Sheffield United.
Their form in the EFL Cup, however, is better, having advanced past Stevenage in a high-scoring 4-3 encounter, which could give them confidence ahead of their first-ever League Cup clash with Crystal Palace.
Norwich City Injury News
Norwich City faces several injury concerns, with long-term absentees Ashley Barnes, Jacob Sorensen, and Christian Fassnacht unavailable.
New signing Ante Crnac is likely to be in contention for a starting place, and Onel Hernandez, who scored twice in their first-round win, could be recalled to add firepower to their attack.
Players To Watch
Crystal Palace Player To Watch
Ismaila Sarr – The new signing is likely to get more playing time in this match, and his pace and dribbling skills could be crucial in breaking down Norwich’s defence.
Norwich City Player To Watch
Onel Hernandez – Having scored twice in the first round, Hernandez will be a key attacking threat for Norwich.
His ability to find the back of the net could make a significant difference in this tightly contested cup tie.
Prediction
Both teams have had a rocky start to their respective league campaigns and may view this EFL Cup tie as an opportunity to boost confidence.
Crystal Palace's strong home form in cup competitions and Norwich's defensive vulnerabilities suggest a win for the hosts.
Prediction: Crystal Palace 2-0 Norwich City
Norwich 
