Crystal Palace find themselves in the relegation zone, but their situation isn't entirely bleak. Their last match offered some hope. Up next is a mid-table side, Newcastle United, who have slipped down two places following a setback in the previous round.
Crystal Palace managed a 2:2 draw with Champions League contenders Aston Villa, who have been stuttering since October. In that encounter, the London club gave it their all. Their opponents had more chances (xGA 3.11), including a missed penalty, but two well-executed counterattacks allowed Crystal Palace to avoid defeat. This marks the third game under Oliver Glasner where they've scored twice. Two goals scored has meant no defeat.
Newcastle, on the other hand, have struggled to score twice in a match. They had a brief resurgence in Round 11 against Nottingham Forest (3:1 away), but back home, they fell into old habits, losing to West Ham United (0:2). From the 5th to the 10th round, Newcastle scored no more than a single goal, twice failing to score at all. Their defence isn't flawless, managing just one win in those six rounds—a surprising victory against Arsenal.
Crystal Palace will play at home but are likely to adopt a counter-attacking strategy once more. They are expected to score their customary goal, which should secure at least a draw against Newcastle. We’re taking a double chance for the hosts.
