Match Overview
- Fixture: Crystal Palace vs Arsenal
- Date & Time: Saturday, December 22, 1:30 AM (GMT)
- Venue: Selhurst Park
- Premier League Standings: Crystal Palace (15th) | Arsenal (3rd)
- Win Probability: Arsenal 55%, Crystal Palace 25%, Draw 20%
This Matchday 17 encounter between Crystal Palace and Arsenal promises to be a thrilling battle as both sides aim to strengthen their positions in the Premier League standings. Arsenal, currently 3rd, will look to maintain their momentum and stay in the title race, while Crystal Palace, placed 15th, are eager to move clear of the relegation zone.
Current Form & Recent Results
Crystal Palace Recent Form
- Crystal Palace 2-2 Manchester City — Impressive draw against the league leaders
- Ipswich Town 0-1 Crystal Palace — Hard-fought away win
- Crystal Palace 1-1 Newcastle — Another solid result against a strong opponent
- Nottingham Forest 1-0 Crystal Palace — Narrow defeat away from home
- Aston Villa 1-2 Crystal Palace — Memorable win at Villa Park
- Crystal Palace 0-2 Fulham — Disappointing home loss
- Wolves 2-2 Crystal Palace — Resilient performance to earn a draw
- Brighton 1-3 Crystal Palace — A significant away win in the M23 derby
Crystal Palace have shown defensive resilience, staying unbeaten in 7 of their last 8 Premier League matches. Their form at Selhurst Park has been steady, and recent performances against Manchester City, Newcastle, and Brighton highlight their ability to challenge stronger opponents. Key players like Eberechi Eze and Odsonne Édouard have played crucial roles in Palace’s counter-attacking strategy.
Arsenal Recent Form
- Fulham 1-1 Arsenal — Points shared in a frustrating outing
- Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United — Dominant display to claim all three points
- West Ham 2-5 Arsenal — Goal-fest with Arsenal’s attack in full swing
- Arsenal 2-2 Liverpool — Entertaining draw against title contenders
- Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal — Narrow away defeat
- Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal — Hard-fought draw at Stamford Bridge
- Inter 1-0 Arsenal — Loss in European competition
- Arsenal 3-0 Nottingham Forest — Commanding win at home
- Arsenal 0-0 Everton — Frustrating draw at the Emirates
Arsenals form has been relatively consistent, going unbeaten in 7 of their last 8 Premier League matches. They’ve shown their attacking prowess with decisive wins over Manchester United and West Ham. Led by Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s high-pressing and possession-based system has been key to their success. Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Martin Ødegaard have been pivotal in the Gunners’ attack, with Saka providing crucial creativity and goals.
Matchday 16 video:
Arsenal 0-0 Everton
Brighton 1-3 Crystal Palace
Head-to-Head Record
In their last nine encounters, Arsenal have dominated with 5 wins, Crystal Palace have claimed 1 win, and 3 matches ended in draws. This historical advantage gives Arsenal the psychological edge, but Palace’s ability to grind out results against top teams suggests they’re not to be underestimated.
Key Players to Watch
Crystal Palace
- Eberechi Eze — Palace’s creative heartbeat, known for his dribbling, flair, and vision. His ability to unlock Arsenal’s defense will be crucial.
- Odsonne Édouard — A clinical finisher who has been Palace’s go-to man for goals this season.
- Joachim Andersen — The commanding defender will play a vital role in neutralizing Arsenal’s attack.
Arsenal
- Bukayo Saka — Arsenal’s main creative force. His pace, dribbling, and delivery from wide areas make him a constant threat.
- Gabriel Martinelli — His direct running and finishing ability can trouble Palace’s defense.
- Martin Ødegaard — The midfield maestro’s vision and passing range could be the key to unlocking Palace’s defensive block.
Tactical Analysis
Crystal Palace Tactics
Crystal Palace are expected to play a counter-attacking game, using their defensive solidity as a platform to spring forward quickly. Palace’s defensive structure, led by Joachim Andersen and Marc Guéhi, will be tested by Arsenal’s pressing system. The pace of Eze and the physicality of Édouard will be crucial for quick transitions and counter-attacks. Palace’s ability to defend deep and frustrate Arsenal’s build-up play could make this a low-scoring affair.
Arsenal Tactics
Mikel Arteta’s side will look to control possession and play through the lines using quick one-touch passes. Arsenal’s attack will be spearheaded by Saka and Martinelli on the flanks, with Ødegaard pulling the strings from midfield. Expect Arsenal to press high, looking to win the ball back quickly and exploit spaces in Palace’s defensive line. Arsenal’s patience and ability to break down low blocks will be tested, as Palace are known for their defensive organization.
Prediction
Crystal Palace’s recent form and ability to frustrate top teams make them a tricky opponent, especially at Selhurst Park. However, Arsenal’s superior squad depth, attacking firepower, and historical dominance in this fixture give them the edge. If Arsenal can convert their possession into goals, they should have enough quality to secure the win.
Predicted Scoreline: Crystal Palace 1-2 Arsenal
Goal Scorers: Saka, Martinelli (Arsenal); Eze (Crystal Palace)
Other Predicted & Odds
| Predictions | INDIBET | 91 Club |
| Arsenal 1-0 13% | 8.5 | 6.5 |
| Draw 1-1 12% | 8.5 | 7.0 |
| Arsenal 2-0 10% | 8.5 | 7.0 |
| Arsenal 2-1 9% | 9.0 | 7.0 |
Betting Tips
- Arsenal to Win — Given their superior win probability (55%) and historical dominance, Arsenal is the favorite to win.
- Both Teams to Score (Yes) — Crystal Palace have found the net in several recent games, while Arsenal’s attacking strength is undeniable.
- Over 2.5 Goals — This match could see goals on both ends, making an “over 2.5 goals” market appealing.
- Anytime Goalscorer: Bukayo Saka — Saka’s attacking role makes him a good bet to score.
Conclusion
The Crystal Palace vs Arsenal clash on Matchday 17 promises to be an intense, hard-fought encounter. Palace’s defensive grit will be tested by Arsenal’s fluid attack, while Arsenal will need to be wary of Palace’s counter-attacking threat. With both teams aiming for crucial points, expect a tight contest. Arsenal’s edge in quality and depth should see them claim a narrow victory, but Crystal Palace’s resilience could lead to a surprise result
