Crystal Palace face AZ Alkmaar in the Europa Conference League, and the pressure is on! After a fantastic year that saw them lift the FA Cup and Community Shield, plus a record-breaking 19-game unbeaten run, the Eagles are aiming for their first European victory at Selhurst Park.
Glasner's Take on the Fixture Pile-Up
Manager Oliver Glasner acknowledges the busy schedule, with eight fixtures crammed into December, including Conference League and Carabao Cup commitments. However, he refuses to use it as an excuse. He emphasizes that Palace are embracing the challenge and focusing on the details. "We love to play games," Glasner stated. "Of course, it's a lot of games, so you have to be more focused on small details. But we are happy to play.”
Palace's European Journey So Far
Palace started their European campaign with a positive away win against Dynamo Kyiv. However, a surprising 1-0 defeat to AEK Larnaca has put them in 16th position in the standings. While this position would be enough to advance to the next round if the competition ended today, there are still six crucial games to be played, starting with the home clash against AZ Alkmaar.
AZ Alkmaar also suffered a defeat to Larnaca, a heavy 4-0 loss. However, they've bounced back strongly in the Eredivisie, currently sitting third and only four points behind the league leaders. Their experience in European club competitions, having reached the last 16 of the Europa League last season, makes them a formidable opponent.
Prediction and Betting Tips
Early predictions suggest a tough match for Palace. One expert expects them to struggle to secure their first home European win. Here are some betting tips to consider:
- BTTS - No at odds of 2.03 on Betway
- Double chance - Draw/ AZ Alkmaar at odds of 2.45 on Betway
- Anytime goalscorer - Troy Parrott at odds of 3.80 on Betway
Score prediction leans towards a narrow 0-1 victory for AZ Alkmaar, with Troy Parrott tipped to be the goalscorer.
Can Palace overcome the odds?
Glasner insists that complacency has no place in his team and promises to field a strong side against AZ. Will Crystal Palace be able to secure that elusive home win, or will AZ Alkmaar's European experience prove too much? Tune in to find out!