Crystal Palace vs Nantes Predictions for this pre-season game. Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace will face Ligue 1 side Nantes in a pre-season friendly at Selhurst Park on Sunday. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
Club Friendlies | Aug 11, 2024 at 2pm UK at Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace vs Nantes Predictions
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Will Crystal Palace End Their Pre-Season Unbeaten Against Nantes?
Key Stats
Crystal Palace have scored at least three goals in their last three pre-season matches, showcasing their attacking depth.
Nantes conceded 55 goals in Ligue 1 last season, highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities.
Daichi Kamada has been involved in multiple goals during pre-season, underscoring his importance to Palace’s attack.
Crystal Palace are set to host French side Nantes in their final pre-season fixture at Selhurst Park. This match offers both teams one last opportunity to fine-tune their strategies before diving into their respective league campaigns. Crystal Palace, who have shown promise under new manager Oliver Glasner, are eager to continue their strong pre-season form. Meanwhile, Nantes, looking to build momentum for the upcoming Ligue 1 season, will see this as a critical test against Premier League opposition.
Crystal Palace’s Pre-Season: A Tale of Revival and Optimism
Crystal Palace’s pre-season journey has been marked by a significant transformation under Oliver Glasner. After a tumultuous 2023-24 season that saw them flirt with relegation before finishing 10th, the arrival of Glasner has breathed new life into the squad. The Austrian manager, known for his high-pressing and direct style, has managed to instill a renewed sense of purpose within the team.
The Eagles have been impressive in their pre-season outings, recording three consecutive wins, including notable victories against Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United. These results have not only boosted morale but have also provided a glimpse of the potential that Glasner’s system holds. However, despite their attacking prowess, Palace’s defence has shown some vulnerabilities, as they have yet to keep a clean sheet in their pre-season campaign.
The expected lineup for Palace against Nantes reflects Glasner’s commitment to his tactical philosophy. Sam Johnstone is likely to start in goal, with a back three comprising Joachim Andersen, Chris Richards, and Kader Riad. In midfield, the versatile Jeffrey Schlupp and Will Hughes are expected to control the tempo, while new signing Ismaila Sarr could make his debut on the wing, adding pace and creativity to the attack. Up front, Jordan Ayew and Daichi Kamada will aim to capitalise on Nantes’ defensive weaknesses.
Nantes’ Pre-Season: A Mixed Bag with Lingering Questions
Nantes’ pre-season has been a story of mixed fortunes. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, the French side is eager to make amends and secure a more comfortable position in Ligue 1 this time around. Under the guidance of Antoine Kombouaré, Nantes have shown flashes of brilliance, winning three of their four pre-season matches. However, their overall performance still raises questions, particularly in terms of consistency and defensive solidity.
Kombouaré’s side is expected to line up in a 3-5-2 formation, with Alban Lafont between the posts, protected by a back three of Jean-Charles Castelletto, Nicolas Pallois, and Jaouen Hadjam. The midfield, anchored by Pedro Chirivella and Douglas Augusto, will look to provide stability and support for the wing-backs, who are tasked with providing width and creativity. Up front, the combination of Mostafa Mohamed and Ignatius Ganago will aim to exploit any lapses in Palace’s defence.
Despite their pre-season successes, Nantes have shown vulnerabilities, particularly when playing away from home. Their defence, which conceded 55 goals in Ligue 1 last season, remains a concern, and they will need to be at their best to contain Palace’s dynamic attack. Offensively, Nantes have struggled to consistently create clear-cut chances, and much will depend on the form of Mohamed and Ganago to deliver in front of goal.
Key Areas of the Field and Tactical Battle
The midfield battle will be crucial in determining the outcome of this match. Crystal Palace’s duo of Schlupp and Hughes will need to assert their dominance, using their physicality and energy to disrupt Nantes’ rhythm and control possession. On the other hand, Chirivella and Augusto will be tasked with keeping Nantes compact and organised while also initiating quick transitions to catch Palace off guard.
Another key area to watch will be the wide positions. Palace’s wing-backs, particularly Sarr if he starts, will look to stretch the play and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. Nantes, who often rely on their wing-backs for width, will need to be cautious not to leave too much space behind, as Palace’s quick transitions could prove lethal. The battle between Palace’s aggressive press and Nantes’ attempt to build from the back could define the flow of the game.
When considering the expected goals (xG) metrics, Crystal Palace are likely to have the upper hand, given their attacking form in pre-season. Their ability to create high-quality chances and capitalise on defensive errors has been evident, and this could be a decisive factor against a Nantes side that has struggled to maintain defensive solidity.
Criticism of Nantes’ Tactical Approach Under Kombouaré
While Antoine Kombouaré has managed to stabilise Nantes to some extent, his tactical approach has not been without criticism. Kombouaré’s decision to adopt a conservative strategy, often focusing on damage limitation rather than taking the initiative, has left Nantes vulnerable against more proactive teams. This approach may work against weaker opposition, but it has often exposed Nantes’ lack of creativity and cohesion when facing stronger sides.
Kombouaré’s reluctance to adapt his tactics based on the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses has also been questioned. In matches where Nantes are expected to defend deep, the team has often lacked the necessary outlets to relieve pressure and launch effective counter-attacks. This could be a significant issue against Crystal Palace, who are likely to dominate possession and press high up the pitch.
Additionally, Kombouaré’s reliance on ageing players in key positions, such as Pallois in defence, has raised concerns about Nantes’ ability to cope with the intensity and pace of Premier League opposition. While experience is valuable, the lack of youthful dynamism in critical areas could be a significant disadvantage against a Palace side that thrives on quick transitions and high-energy play.
Analysis of Crystal Palace’s Strategy and Glasner’s Management
Oliver Glasner’s impact on Crystal Palace has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly in terms of revitalizing a team that looked devoid of confidence under the previous management. Glasner’s high-pressing, direct style has suited Palace’s strengths, particularly in attack, where the likes of Ayew and Kamada have thrived. However, there are still areas where Glasner’s approach could be refined.
One of the key challenges for Glasner will be to address Palace’s defensive vulnerabilities. While his attacking philosophy has yielded results, the team’s tendency to leave gaps at the back has been evident, particularly in pre-season. This could be exploited by more clinical teams, and it will be essential for Glasner to strike a balance between attacking intent and defensive solidity.
Despite these concerns, Glasner’s ability to get the best out of his players, particularly in high-stakes matches, has been a significant factor in Palace’s recent success. His willingness to rotate the squad and integrate new signings like Sarr into the starting lineup demonstrates a proactive approach to management that bodes well for the future.
Match Predictions
Based on the analysis of both teams’ form, tactics, and expected lineups, here are the predictions for the match:
Best Bet: Crystal Palace to Win and Both Teams to Score
Crystal Palace have shown their attacking prowess in pre-season, and while Nantes have been resilient, they are likely to struggle against Palace’s dynamic forward line. However, given Palace’s defensive issues, Nantes could still find the back of the net. A win for the home side with both teams scoring seems the most likely outcome.
Correct Score Prediction: Crystal Palace 3-1 Nantes
Considering the attacking form of Crystal Palace and the defensive vulnerabilities of Nantes, a 3-1 victory for the hosts appears plausible. Palace’s front line is likely to create numerous chances, and while Nantes might score, they are unlikely to keep up with Palace’s relentless pressure.
Goalscorer Prediction: Daichi Kamada to Score
Daichi Kamada has been one of the standout performers for Crystal Palace in pre-season, and his ability to find space in the final third makes him a prime candidate to score. Given Palace’s expected dominance in attack, Kamada’s goal-scoring instincts could see him on the scoresheet once again.
First Team to Score: Crystal Palace
Given their strong starts in recent matches and Nantes’ defensive fragility, Crystal Palace are likely to strike first. With the home crowd behind them and a more settled lineup, Palace should be able to assert their dominance early and take the lead.
Innovative Market: Total Corners Over 9.5
With both teams likely to attack frequently, there should be plenty of corner kicks in this match. Palace’s direct play and Nantes’ reliance on counter-attacks could lead to a high number of set-pieces, making the over 9.5 corners market an attractive option. possession, it is likely that the Gunners will have at least 8 shots on target during the match.
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