Ipswich vs Crystal Palace: Match Preview and Prediction
The Premier League clash between Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, promises to be an intriguing battle. Both teams are struggling to find form this season, making this encounter a crucial opportunity to gain momentum. Ipswich, fresh from back-to-back promotions, will host a Palace side that has yet to rediscover its spark from last season.
Ipswich Preview: Tractor Boys Seek Revival
Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League has been a mixed bag. Despite their spirited performances, the Tractor Boys have only managed one win in their first 13 games, alongside six draws and six defeats. Their most recent outing, a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, highlighted their struggles in front of goal.
Manager Kieran McKenna will be hoping his side can bounce back at Portman Road, where the home crowd could play a pivotal role. However, injuries to key players like Jacob Greaves and Kalvin Phillips remain a concern. Ipswich’s ability to compete against more experienced Premier League sides will be tested once again.
Ipswich Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Muric; Clarke, O’Shea, Burgess, Davis; Morsy, Cajuste; Hutchinson, Chaplin, Szmodics; Delap.
Unavailable: Hirst, Ogbene, Tuanzebe
Questionable: Greaves, Phillips, Johnson
Crystal Palace Preview: Eagles Struggling to Soar
Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, have endured a tough start to the season. With just one league win so far, the Eagles are desperate to turn their fortunes around. Despite their struggles, Palace showed resilience in their 1-1 draw against Newcastle United last weekend, with Daniel Munoz scoring a dramatic late equalizer.
Injuries and suspensions have hampered Palace’s progress, with key players like Daichi Kamada and Adam Wharton unavailable. Glasner will need to find a winning formula quickly to avoid slipping further down the table.
Crystal Palace Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1):
Henderson, Chalobah, Lacroix, Guehi; Munoz, Hughes, Lerma, Mitchell; Sarr, Eze; Mateta.
Unavailable: Riad, Wharton, Kamada, Franca
Questionable: Holding
Key Matchup: Ipswich vs Crystal Palace
This match pits Ipswich’s youthful energy against Palace’s experience. Ipswich’s lack of top-flight experience is evident, but their determination and home advantage could make them a tough opponent. Meanwhile, Palace’s defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge in attack have been their undoing this season.
Prediction: Ipswich vs Crystal Palace
Ipswich’s resilience and home support could give them the edge in this encounter. While Palace have shown flashes of quality, their inconsistency remains a concern. A draw seems likely, but Ipswich might just sneak a win if they capitalize on Palace’s defensive lapses.
Tip: Double chance – Ipswich to win or draw
