Crystal Palace is set to challenge Arsenal in a thrilling Premier League clash this evening, aiming for redemption against the formidable Gunners.

The Eagles faced a heart-wrenching defeat in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, succumbing to Arsenal with a close score of 3-2 at the Emirates Stadium.

Gabriel Jesus showcased his exceptional skills by scoring a stunning hat-trick for Arsenal, despite Jean-Philippe Mateta giving the visitors an early lead.

Manager Oliver Glasner will need to strategize without his star player Eberechi Eze, who is sidelined due to a foot injury. Additionally, with wing-back Daniel Munoz suspended, Glasner faces the challenge of reorganizing his defensive lineup.

On the other hand, Arsenal’s head coach Mikel Arteta benefits from bolstered squad options, as both Riccardo Calafiori and Declan Rice are fit to play. Calafiori, returning from a lengthy absence since late November, will be a vital asset for Arsenal as they navigate a busy festive schedule.

Matchday at Selhurst #CPFC // #CRYARS pic.twitter.com/L2JLkBlJHM

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) December 21, 2024

In-Depth Match Preview: Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Recent Form Analysis

Crystal Palace: DWDWL

Despite their recent setback against Arsenal in midweek, Crystal Palace has been in commendable form lately.

Before their exit from the Carabao Cup, the Eagles had an impressive record, losing only one of their last nine matches. Their resilience was evident last weekend when they triumphed over local rivals Brighton with a memorable 3-1 victory on the South Coast.

Moreover, Oliver Glasner’s squad secured hard-fought draws against strong teams like Aston Villa, Newcastle, and Manchester City. This positive run has helped them establish a crucial four-point buffer above the relegation zone, providing much-needed confidence as they strive to solidify their position in the league.

Arsenal: WDWDW

Arsenal extended their unbeaten streak to nine games with a crucial victory on Tuesday night, securing a place in the semi-finals against Newcastle United.

Currently, the North London club finds themselves six points behind Liverpool in the intense Premier League title race, with the league leaders holding a game in hand.

While the prolonged period without defeat is commendable, Arsenal has experienced a few disappointing results recently, including dropped points against Fulham and a frustrating goalless draw with Everton at the Emirates last weekend.

Mikel Arteta will be eager for his team to harness the momentum from their midweek success, instilling belief that they can seize victory in the second leg of their double-header against Crystal Palace.

Previous Encounter Recap: Arsenal 3-2 Crystal Palace, Carabao Cup, December 18, 2024

In a closely contested match just three days ago, Arsenal advanced to the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup after a hard-fought victory over Crystal Palace.

Jean-Philippe Mateta initially put the visitors ahead after Jakub Kiwior struggled to handle Dean Henderson’s long ball. Mateta outmuscled Kiwior and expertly slotted the ball past David Raya, giving Palace an early advantage.

Although Arsenal controlled much of the first half, they struggled to create clear-cut chances, with Raheem Sterling coming closest with a well-taken free-kick.

At halftime, Mikel Arteta made a pivotal change by introducing the creative playmaker Martin Odegaard, which dramatically shifted the game’s dynamics. The previously lackluster Arsenal side transformed into a more potent, fluid attacking unit, equalizing within ten minutes of the second half.

Odegaard’s pass
Gabby’s finish

What a beauty pic.twitter.com/uShTHA60h

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 19, 2024

Odegaard’s incisive pass found Gabriel Jesus, who displayed remarkable composure to chip the ball over Henderson. Jesus later completed his hat-trick with a powerful strike into the corner; despite appearing offside in the buildup, the absence of VAR meant the goal was allowed to stand. Jesus’s third goal mirrored his second, as he ruthlessly dispatched the ball into the same corner of the net.

Former Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah managed to score with a brilliant header in the dying minutes, creating a tense finale, but the Gunners held firm to secure their progression in the tournament.

Anticipated Starting Lineups for Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Crystal Palace: Henderson; Chalobah, Lacroix, Guehi; Clyne, Doucoure, Lerma, Mitchell; Kamada, Mateta, Sarr

Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Partey; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Jesus.

Match Official Information

Simon Hooper will officiate the match, assisted by Adrian Holmes and Simon Long, with Oliver Langford serving as the fourth official. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be Michael Salisbury, supported by Steve Meredith.

Broadcast Information for Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Fans can catch the live broadcast of Crystal Palace vs Arsenal on Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Go UK, Sky Sports Ultra, and NOW TV UK.

Kick-off Timing for the Premier League Clash

The match at Selhurst Park is scheduled to kick off at 17:30 GMT on Saturday, December 21, 2024.

Betting Odds

Crystal Palace – 11/2

Draw – 10/3

Arsenal – 1/2

Read – Eight talking points ahead of the Premier League weekend

See more – 5⃣ spicy fixtures you must watch this weekend

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