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Are you ready for an exhilarating London derby? This Saturday, Fulham will host Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage in what promises to be an exciting clash as both teams vie for crucial points in the Premier League. Let’s dive into the team news, match facts, and everything you need to know before the whistle blows at 15:00 GMT.
Team News
Fulham has received a boost as midfielder Sasa Lukic is fit again following an injury that saw him sidelined during their game against Nottingham Forest. However, they will still miss key players including Reiss Nelson, Kenny Tete, and Harry Wilson. In contrast, Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze is expected to rejoin the starting line-up, and Adam Wharton is also pushing to break into the XI. Unfortunately for the Eagles, Cheick Doucoure, Chadi Riad, and Joel Ward will not feature in the match.
Match Facts
This match is steeped in history and statistics:
- Fulham aims to complete a top-flight double against Crystal Palace for the first time since the 2000-01 season when they last won both league meetings in a single Championship season.
- Despite winning four of their first seven encounters against Fulham, Palace has struggled recently with no wins in their last six matches against the Cottagers (D4, L2).
- Nonetheless, the Eagles hold a significant advantage at Craven Cottage, going unbeaten in their last five visits (W2, D3).
Fulham's Strong Start
Fulham currently stands at 39 points this season, marking their second-best performance at this stage in the top-flight since 1959-60. They are eager to achieve three consecutive Premier League wins for the first time since January 2023. Their recent victory against Nottingham Forest marked a pivotal moment, ending a frustrating home run of draws and a single defeat. Particularly impressive is their form in London derbies; they have not lost in their last seven home encounters against London rivals.
Crystal Palace's Away Form
On the other side, Crystal Palace is on an impressive run, looking to clinch four successive away wins for the first time in their Premier League history. The Eagles are unbeaten in their last eight away league matches, amassing 18 points from these fixtures. Although they have lost two of their last three matches, they have proven resilience in their league outings. Jean-Philippe Mateta, who scored multiple goals in his last away games, is on the verge of becoming the first Crystal Palace player to score in four consecutive away matches.
Oliver Glasner's Insights
Crystal Palace's manager Oliver Glasner recently shared his thoughts during the pre-match press conference. Reflecting on the challenges his team faces, he emphasized the importance of staying calm and patient, especially in high-pressure situations. He acknowledged the psychological pressure players might feel when expectations are high but stressed that sticking to the game plan is crucial for success. Glasner expressed confidence in his players and believes they will demonstrate their potential against a strong Fulham side.
Key Player Matchup
As we gear up for the match, keep an eye on key players from both teams. Fulham’s Antonee Robinson and Raul Jiménez will be pivotal in their offensive plays, while Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta aims to extend his scoring streak. The battle of tactics between Glasner and Silva should also provide an intriguing subplot as both managers strategize to gain the upper hand.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming Fulham vs Crystal Palace match isn't just another fixture; it’s a testament to London’s fierce football culture. With both teams vying for critical Premier League points, expect a thrilling encounter filled with passion, strategy, and skill. Don’t miss the action this Saturday at Craven Cottage!
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