Both clubs have accumulated nine points, but while Crystal Palace are not yet in the relegation zone, Ipswich Town find themselves already in it. This is a crucial match for Premier League survival. It may only be six months until the end of the season, but delaying could prove costly.
Ipswich Town managed to hold off Manchester United (1:1), but offered little resistance against a less distinguished Nottingham Forest (0:1). What's important is that they faced Manchester United at home and Nottingham Forest away, with Nottingham deservedly above the Manchester team in the standings. Against Manchester United, Ipswich Town were twice as threatening to their opponents (1.59-0.80 in xG), whereas against Nottingham Forest it was the opposite (0.59-1.68 in xG) — the home field factor significantly impacted their performance.
Crystal Palace were also much more active than Newcastle United, whom they faced on Saturday, but only just avoided defeat (1:1). Before Daniël Muñoz equalised in the 94th minute, securing his first goal in England, he had a massive opportunity in the first half but missed. While trailing 0:1 in the early second half, Crystal Palace had a double chance — first thwarted by the goalkeeper, then immediately cleared off the line by a defender. It marked the fourth consecutive match without victory for the team. Moreover, their away form is troubling, with three draws and three losses in six Premier League outings this season.
Last round showcased typical Crystal Palace, proficient in attack but struggling with finishing, which some might attribute to misfortune. For Ipswich Town, even scoring just once against such an opponent could yield valuable points.
