Crystal Palace vs Sheffield United Predictions

Crystal Palace vs Sheffield United predictions for this Premier League clash. Crystal Palace and Sheffield United, both recovering from conceding five goals in their last games, clash in a crucial match at Selhurst Park on Tuesday. Read on for all our free Premier League predictions and betting tips.

Premier League | Gameweek 22 – Jan 30, 2024 at 8pm UK at Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace vs Sheffield United Predictions

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Selhurst Stalemate: Eagles and Blades Clash in A Crucial Clash

As Crystal Palace and Sheffield United gear up for a crucial Premier League clash at Selhurst Park, both teams find themselves in precarious positions. Palace, sitting five points clear of the relegation zone, and Sheffield United, rooted to the bottom, are desperate for points to revive their faltering campaigns.

Team Dynamics

• Crystal Palace’s Dilemma: Having endured a torrid run of form, Palace’s once-sturdy defence has crumbled. Roy Hodgson’s side has conceded over two goals per game in their last ten fixtures, raising questions about the team’s direction and Hodgson’s future.
• Sheffield United’s Struggles: The Blades have found life tough on the road, compounded by a lack of goals and a porous defense. Their recent 5-2 FA Cup defeat to Brighton exemplifies their defensive frailties.

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Tactical Analysis

• Crystal Palace’s Approach: Palace must rediscover their defensive solidity. Hodgson may look to reinforce the backline while leveraging Jordan Ayew and Odsonne Edouard’s attacking prowess.
• Sheffield United’s Strategy: Chris Wilder’s team needs to tighten up at the back while hoping Ben Brereton Diaz continues his scoring form. They might adopt a more cautious approach, aiming to hit on the counter.

Key Player Match-Ups

• Edouard vs United’s Defence: Edouard’s pace and finishing could be crucial against United’s leaky defence.
• Brereton Diaz’s Impact: Diaz’s eye for goal will test Palace’s shaky defence, potentially exploiting any lapses.

Predicted Gameplay

Expect a game where both teams will be cautious but desperate for goals. Palace’s home advantage might spur them on, but United’s recent attacking form can’t be ignored.

Suggestions for Improvement

• Crystal Palace: Hodgson needs to find a balance between defensive stability and attacking threat. A more dynamic midfield could help.
• Sheffield United: Wilder must address the defensive issues. A more disciplined approach and better use of the wings could be key.

Managerial Strengths and Weaknesses

• Roy Hodgson: A veteran with tactical nous but struggling to adapt to modern dynamics.
• Chris Wilder: Innovative but struggling to make his tactics work in the top flight.

Expected Goals Analysis

Palace’s inability to keep clean sheets recently contrasts with their earlier form. Sheffield’s low goal-scoring rate suggests a struggle to find the net.

Expected Line-Ups and Commentary

• Crystal Palace: With Michael Olise and Rob Holding out, Hodgson might rely on Edouard and Ayew upfront. The return of these players bolsters their attack significantly.
• Sheffield United: Brereton Diaz will lead the line, with Wilder likely to field a cautious lineup, focusing on shoring up the defence.

Predictions and Rationale

1. Match Outcome – Draw

The prediction for a draw stems from the comparable struggles both teams have faced recently. Crystal Palace, under Hodgson, has shown resilience at home but has been prone to defensive errors. Sheffield United, on the other hand, has found a new attacking impetus under Wilder but remains vulnerable at the back. The likely scenario is a tightly contested match where both teams score but also cancel each other out. With Palace’s inconsistency at Selhurst Park and Sheffield’s desperation to climb from the bottom, a draw seems a plausible outcome.

2. Correct Score Prediction – 1-1 Draw

A 1-1 scoreline seems realistic given the current form of both teams. Crystal Palace has struggled to keep clean sheets, and Sheffield United has found goals hard to come by, especially in away games. Both teams are likely to approach the game cautiously, aware of their recent defensive frailties. Palace’s attacking threat, led by Edouard, might be neutralised by Sheffield’s improved attacking play, making a single-goal-each draw a likely scenario.

3. Goalscorer Prediction – Odsonne Edouard

Edouard has been a key figure in Palace’s attack this season. His ability to find space and finish chances makes him a likely candidate to score against Sheffield United. Considering Sheffield’s defensive woes, particularly in away games, Edouard’s proficiency in front of goal could be the difference for Palace. His agility and skill set him apart as the player most likely to find the back of the net in this encounter.

4. Corner Prediction – Crystal Palace to Get More Corners

Crystal Palace’s playing style, especially at home, involves pushing forward and creating chances from wide areas. This approach often results in a higher number of corners. Sheffield United, focusing on a more disciplined defensive setup, might concede corners as they look to absorb pressure from Palace. Given Palace’s tendency to attack down the flanks with players like Eze and Ayew, they are likely to earn more corners in this fixture.

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