Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are gearing up for a Premier League clash at Villa Park. Aston Villa is seeking their first win of the season, while Crystal Palace aims to continue their unbeaten streak. Villa’s strong home record contrasts with Palace’s impressive away form, setting the stage for a competitive match. Key injuries and squad rotations could play a crucial role in determining the outcome, with Villa potentially capitalizing on Palace’s fatigue from midweek travels.
Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are set to clash at Villa Park in a Premier League encounter that promises to be a compelling battle. Both teams are eager to improve their standing early in the 2025-26 season, with Aston Villa particularly desperate for their first victory. While Villa has had a slow start domestically, their success in European competitions offers a glimmer of hope, contrasting with Crystal Palace's steady form under Oliver Glasner.
Aston Villa's Premier League campaign has been underwhelming, marked by a 0-0 draw against Newcastle and a 1-0 defeat to Brentford. The loss against a depleted Brentford side, missing key players like Bryan Mbeumo and Christian Norgaard, was especially disappointing. Villa's inability to score in their last three Premier League matches, including their final game of the previous season against Manchester United, is a worrying trend. This scoring drought is reminiscent of a similar spell in the 1997-98 season, adding historical context to their current struggles. Overcoming this issue is crucial, especially with a challenging Europa League group stage on the horizon, featuring teams such as Red Bull Salzburg and Feyenoord.
Despite their recent struggles, Aston Villa can draw confidence from their formidable home record. Villa Park has been a fortress, with the team unbeaten in their last 19 league matches at home, making it the longest ongoing top-flight home streak in England. This strong home form will be vital as they seek to turn their season around.
However, team news presents a mixed picture for Villa. Midfielder Boubacar Kamara sustained a thigh injury against Brentford, casting doubt over his availability for Sunday’s game. While initial reports suggested he might be fit, it now appears likely that he will miss at least the next two weeks, joining Ross Barkley and Andres Garcia on the injury list. On a positive note, Ezri Konsa returns from suspension, potentially displacing Pau Torres in the starting lineup.
Crystal Palace, under Glasner, remains unbeaten this season, a streak that extends to 13 matches if their Community Shield victory over Liverpool is included. Their Premier League performances have been consistent, with draws against Chelsea and Nottingham Forest. In their recent match against Forest, a Callum Hudson-Odoi equalizer nullified Ismaila Sarr’s opening goal. Palace also secured their place in the Conference League group stage with a 0-0 draw against Fredrikstad, ensuring a 1-0 aggregate win. They are set to face AZ Alkmaar and Strasbourg in the group stage.
Crystal Palace's away form adds intrigue to this fixture. They have lost just two Premier League away games since November 2024, a record bettered only by Arsenal. This impressive away record includes a 2-2 draw in the same fixture last season, followed by a 4-1 win at Selhurst Park and a 3-0 FA Cup semi-final triumph. These results highlight Palace's ability to perform under pressure and secure positive outcomes on the road.
Crystal Palace has bolstered their squad with the acquisition of Spanish talent Yeremy Pino from Villarreal, aiming to fill the void left by Eberechi Eze. Pino is eligible to make his Premier League debut this weekend. Chris Richards is expected to be available despite a minor ankle issue, while Will Hughes is doubtful with a knock. However, Palace faces a significant injury list, with Odsonne Edouard, Caleb Kporha, Matheus Franca, Eddie Nketiah, Cheick Doucoure, and Chadi Riad all sidelined.
Ismaila Sarr has been a consistent threat to Aston Villa, directly contributing to a goal in each of his six Premier League starts against them, scoring seven goals and providing three assists. His presence will undoubtedly pose a challenge to Villa's defense.
Crystal Palace's recent travels and limited squad rotation may play a significant role in this match. With several players having played the full 90 minutes against Fredrikstad, fatigue could be a factor. Aston Villa, despite their struggles, could capitalize on this, stifling their tired opponents and potentially securing their first Premier League victory of the season. Unai Emery will be keen to exploit any weakness in Palace's lineup and ensure his team starts building momentum.
In conclusion, while Crystal Palace has demonstrated resilience and strong away form, the potential fatigue from their midweek travels could give Aston Villa the edge. Villa's home advantage and the pressing need for a win make them the favorites to clinch a victory in this closely watched Premier League encounter. The match will be a test of Villa's ability to overcome their scoring drought and Palace's capacity to maintain their unbeaten run amidst squad challenges.