By rikififi90 
The Premier League saw another thrilling chapter this Wednesday with the clash between Arsenal and Crystal Palace in the 34th round of the 2024/25 season. At Emirates Stadium in London, the Gunners took the lead just two minutes in with a header from Jakub Kiwior, but Crystal Palace responded with Eberechi Eze at the 26th minute, leveling the score. At the 41st minute of the first half, Leandro Trossard put Arsenal back in front with a stunning goal, securing a partial 2-1 advantage. The match, still ongoing, is pivotal for Arsenal’s ambitions as they fight to keep their slim title hopes alive, while Crystal Palace aims to solidify their mid-table position. The game, which kicked off at 4:00 PM (Brasília time), has drawn attention from fans and analysts, particularly due to its potential impact on the championship race, currently led by Liverpool.
Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, took to the field with a solid lineup, banking on the attacking prowess of players like Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Raheem Sterling. The London side, sitting in second place with 66 points, needs a win to close the 13-point gap to leaders Liverpool, who could clinch the title if Arsenal stumble. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, arrived at the Emirates with a balanced squad, highlighting the creativity of Eze and the presence of Eddie Nketiah up top. The team, currently 12th with 44 points, is enjoying a stable run in the competition but struggles to overcome top-tier opponents like Arsenal.
The atmosphere at Emirates Stadium reflects the match’s significance. With a capacity for over 60,000 fans, the stadium has been a stage for Arsenal’s standout performances this season, especially in crucial games. Crystal Palace, in turn, relies on their defensive organization and quick transitions to surprise the hosts. So far, the match has been marked by intensity, with chances created on both sides and moments of tension, such as missed shots by Nketiah and Rice.
Key moments of the first half
The first half was packed with excitement, with plays that shaped the partial 2-1 scoreline in Arsenal’s favor. Below Below are the main highlights from the opening 44 minutes:
- 2’ – Arsenal goal: After a precise free-kick, Jakub Kiwior rises alone in the box and heads firmly into the net, opening the score at Emirates Stadium.
- 26’ – Crystal Palace goal: In a rehearsed corner routine, Adam Wharton crosses to Eberechi Eze, who strikes first-time, hitting the corner past goalkeeper David Raya.
- 41’ – Arsenal goal: Jurriën Timber finds Trossard at the edge of the box, and the Belgian forward makes an individual move before curling a shot to restore Arsenal’s lead.
- 29’ – Palace missed chance: Eddie Nketiah shoots from inside the box, but the ball goes wide, wasting a clear chance to equalize.
- 36’ – Dangerous foul: Eze commits a foul on an Arsenal player, halting a promising move by the Gunners in midfield.
Match context in the Premier League
The 2024/25 Premier League season has been marked by a fierce battle at the top of the table. Liverpool, with 79 points from 33 games, lead comfortably, driven by a consistent campaign that includes 24 wins. Arsenal, with 66 points from 34 matches, hold second place but face pressure from teams like Manchester City (61 points) and Nottingham Forest (60 points), who also dream of the top spot. A win against Crystal Palace is vital for the Gunners, not only for the title race but also to secure a direct Champions League spot.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have had an up-and-down season. With 11 wins, 12 draws, and 11 losses, Oliver Glasner’s side sit comfortably mid-table, far from the relegation zone but without major ambitions in the competition. The team has stood out for their defensive solidity, with players like Marc Guéhi and Maxence Lacroix, but struggles to convert chances into goals, as seen in missed shots by Nketiah and Kamada in the first half.
The rivalry between Arsenal and Crystal Palace has historically favored the Gunners. In the last 21 head-to-head matches, Arsenal won 12, while Palace triumphed in just three, with six draws. In the first leg this season, Arsenal thrashed Crystal Palace 5-1 at Selhurst Park, with Gabriel Jesus starring by scoring twice. This record boosts Arsenal fans’ confidence, but Palace have shown they can pull off upsets, especially in games at the Emirates.
Lineups and tactical approaches
Arsenal lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing possession and speed on the flanks. Mikel Arteta opted for David Raya in goal, with a backline of Jurriën Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. In midfield, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, and Martin Ødegaard provide balance and creativity, while Sterling, Trossard, and Martinelli form the attacking trio. The choice of Trossard as a starter reflects Arteta’s trust in the Belgian’s ability to deliver in key moments, as evidenced by his goal at the 41st minute.
Crystal Palace adopted a 3-6-1 setup, emphasizing defensive compactness and quick transitions. Dean Henderson is in goal, protected by defenders Jefferson Lerma, Maxence Lacroix, and Marc Guéhi. In midfield, Daniel Muñoz, Asher Devenny, Adam Wharton, Daichi Kamada, Eberechi Eze, and Tyrick Mitchell form a robust line, with Eddie Nketiah as the lone striker. Glasner’s strategy hinges on counterattacks, leveraging Eze’s speed and Nketiah’s movement to create danger.
Both managers’ tactical choices reflect their distinct objectives. While Arsenal aim to impose their game at home with high possession (averaging 58% this season), Crystal Palace adopt a reactive stance, exploiting gaps left by the Gunners. So far, Palace’s approach has worked in parts, as seen in Eze’s goal, but they need to be more clinical in front of goal to push for a draw or upset.
TROSSARD MAKES IT TWO!
Leo re-establishes our advantage with a measured effort into the corner 🔎🔍
🔴 2-1 🟡 (42) pic.twitter.com/alznFzdFlN
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 23, 2025
Individual standouts in the first half
Several players have shone in the first 44 minutes. For Arsenal, Leandro Trossard is the standout, not only for his goal but also for his constant movement and playmaking ability. Jakub Kiwior also deserves praise for his defensive solidity and the opening goal. Declan Rice, despite two wayward shots, has been crucial in transitioning between defense and attack with precise passes and interceptions.
For Crystal Palace, Eberechi Eze is the key figure, with a high-quality goal and active involvement in the attack. The English midfielder averages 2.3 shots per game this season and is Palace’s main creative outlet. Eddie Nketiah, a former Arsenal player, has battled against the tight marking of Saliba and Kiwior but hasn’t found the net. Adam Wharton, with the assist for Eze’s goal, also showed quality on set pieces.
- Trossard (Arsenal): Goal at 41 minutes, 3 shots, 85% pass accuracy.
- Kiwior (Arsenal): Goal at 2 minutes, 2 interceptions, 1 tackle.
- Eze (Crystal Palace): Goal at 26 minutes, 2 shots, 1 foul committed.
- Wharton (Crystal Palace): 1 assist, 78% pass accuracy.
- Rice (Arsenal): 2 shots, 3 completed long passes, 1 interception.
Impact of the result on the table
The outcome of this match will directly affect the Premier League standings. For Arsenal, a win is crucial to keep pressure on Liverpool, though their title chances remain slim. With 18 wins in 34 games, the Gunners have a solid campaign, averaging 1.97 points per match. A loss, however, could confirm Liverpool’s title as early as this round, as noted by fans and analysts on social media.
For Crystal Palace, a positive result at the Emirates would be a significant achievement, especially given their unfavorable record against Arsenal. With 44 points, the team sits comfortably in 12th, but a win could boost confidence for the season’s final stretch. Palace’s average of 1.29 points per game reflects an inconsistent campaign, with struggles to win away (only 4 victories in 17 away games).
The contrasting objectives make the clash even more compelling. While Arsenal play under pressure to delay Liverpool’s title celebrations, Crystal Palace have the chance to play with less responsibility, potentially leading to a bolder second half. Finishing efficiency will be key for both sides, especially after missed chances in the first half.
Numbers and match statistics
The duel between Arsenal and Crystal Palace has been balanced in terms of possession and chances created. At halftime, Arsenal held 57% possession, against 43% for Crystal Palace. The Gunners had 8 shots, 3 on target, while Palace had 6 shots, 2 on goal. The average number of corners also reflects the game’s intensity, with 4 for Arsenal and 3 for Palace.
In the season, Arsenal lead the offensive stats, with 97 goals scored across all competitions, 37 in the Premier League. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have netted 22 goals in the league, with Jean-Philippe Mateta as their top scorer (16 goals). Defensively, Arsenal have conceded 41 goals this season, while Palace average 1.3 goals conceded per game in the Premier League.
- Possession: Arsenal 57%, Crystal Palace 43%.
- Shots: Arsenal 8 (3 on target), Crystal Palace 6 (2 on target).
- Corners: Arsenal 4, Crystal Palace 3.
- Fouls committed: Arsenal 3, Crystal Palace 4.
- Passes completed: Arsenal 312, Crystal Palace 238.
Schedule and upcoming challenges
Wednesday’s clash is just one of many challenges Arsenal and Crystal Palace will face in the coming weeks. For the Gunners, the schedule includes pivotal Premier League and Champions League matches, where they’ll face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals. Below is Arsenal’s upcoming schedule:
- 29/04 – Arsenal vs Leicester (Premier League): Home game against the bottom side, a chance to secure three points.
- 03/05 – Tottenham vs Arsenal (Premier League): A historic London derby.
- 07/05 – PSG vs Arsenal (Champions League): First leg of the semifinal, away.
- 11/05 – Arsenal vs West Ham (Premier League): Final match before the international break.
- 18/05 – Everton vs Arsenal (Premier League): A game that could define their final table position.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, face a less demanding but equally important run to maintain their mid-table spot:
- 27/04 – Crystal Palace vs Manchester United (Premier League): Home game against a direct rival.
- 04/05 – Wolverhampton vs Crystal Palace (Premier League): Away match against a lower-table side.
- 10/05 – Crystal Palace vs Ipswich (Premier League): Chance to earn points at home.
- 17/05 – Brighton vs Crystal Palace (Premier League): Regional derby with local rivalry.
- 25/05 – Crystal Palace vs Southampton (Premier League): Final round of the season.
Expectations for the second half
With the score at 2-1 at halftime, the second half promises even more excitement. Arsenal are likely to maintain their attacking pressure, aiming to extend their lead and secure the three points. Mikel Arteta may make strategic substitutions, such as bringing on Bukayo Saka or Ethan Nwaneri, to refresh the attack. The defensive solidity, led by Saliba and Kiwior, will be tested by Palace’s counterattacks, which may include Eze and potential substitutes like Mateta and Sarr.
Crystal Palace need to improve their finishing to chase a draw or upset. Glasner’s side have shown resilience in away games, but they face a motivated Arsenal side desperate for the win. The Emirates crowd is expected to play a key role, urging the Gunners toward another goal to seal the result.
The refereeing has been steady so far, with few fouls (7 total) and no cards issued. The expectation is that the second half will maintain the same pace, with clear scoring chances for both sides. The ability to capitalize on opportunities will be the deciding factor in determining the winner.
Recent history and rivalry
The Arsenal-Crystal Palace matchup is one of London’s classic derbies, always generating anticipation. While Arsenal dominate the historical record, with 35 wins in 57 encounters, Palace have had memorable moments, like their 3-2 victory in 2019 at the Emirates. In the last six meetings, however, Arsenal have won every time, reinforcing their favoritism for today’s game.
The rivalry is further fueled by the presence of former Arsenal players in Palace’s squad, like Eddie Nketiah, who faces his old club. This connection adds extra spice to the matchup, with Arsenal fans hoping Nketiah doesn’t replicate Eze’s first-half feat.
The 5-1 thrashing in the first leg, led by Gabriel Jesus, remains fresh in fans’ minds. Arsenal dominated that game with 62% possession and 15 shots, showcasing their superiority. Crystal Palace, however, have a chance to pull off an upset and break their losing streak against the Gunners, especially if they exploit gaps in the Arsenal defense.
Importance of the game for fans
For Arsenal supporters, the match against Crystal Palace is more than just three points. It’s a chance to keep alive the faint hope of winning the Premier League title after over 20 years. The 2003/04 campaign, when the Gunners went unbeaten to claim the title, remains a constant memory for fans dreaming of a new era of glory under Arteta.
For Crystal Palace fans, the game is an opportunity to make history. Beating Arsenal at the Emirates would be a remarkable feat, especially in a season where the team aims to cement their place in English football’s elite. The passion of Palace supporters, known for their vibrant backing, could inspire the players to push for a positive result.
The game’s impact is also felt on social media, where fans from both sides share analyses, memes, and banter. The possibility of Liverpool clinching the title this round adds extra tension, with Reds fans closely following the events at the Emirates.
Tactical analysis of the first half
The first half exposed the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. Arsenal controlled possession and created more chances but struggled to convert all their opportunities, as seen in Rice’s wayward shots. Their defensive organization, led by Saliba and Kiwior, was solid, except for Eze’s goal, which came from a set-piece marking lapse.
Crystal Palace showed efficiency on set pieces, with Eze’s goal, but faltered in finishing, with Nketiah and Kamada missing chances. The team managed to neutralize parts of Arsenal’s attack with a well-positioned defensive line but left dangerous gaps, like in Trossard’s goal. Bringing on players like Mateta in the second half could boost Palace’s attacking threat.
The midfield battle was a highlight, with Declan Rice and Thomas Partey facing Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada. Palace’s numerical advantage in midfield, with six players, allowed moments of control, but Arsenal countered with Ødegaard’s technical quality and Trossard’s movement.
WOW 😳
That is some finish, @EbereEze10…#CPFC // #ARSCRY pic.twitter.com/Kas9vtLlCh
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) April 23, 2025
The Premier League saw another thrilling chapter this Wednesday with the clash between Arsenal and Crystal Palace in the 34th round of the 2024/25 season. At Emirates Stadium in London, the Gunners took the lead just two minutes in with a header from Jakub Kiwior, but Crystal Palace responded with Eberechi Eze at the 26th minute, leveling the score. At the 41st minute of the first half, Leandro Trossard put Arsenal back in front with a stunning goal, securing a partial 2-1 advantage. The match, still ongoing, is pivotal for Arsenal’s ambitions as they fight to keep their slim title hopes alive, while Crystal Palace aims to solidify their mid-table position. The game, which kicked off at 4:00 PM (Brasília time), has drawn attention from fans and analysts, particularly due to its potential impact on the championship race, currently led by Liverpool.
Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, took to the field with a solid lineup, banking on the attacking prowess of players like Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Raheem Sterling. The London side, sitting in second place with 66 points, needs a win to close the 13-point gap to leaders Liverpool, who could clinch the title if Arsenal stumble. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, arrived at the Emirates with a balanced squad, highlighting the creativity of Eze and the presence of Eddie Nketiah up top. The team, currently 12th with 44 points, is enjoying a stable run in the competition but struggles to overcome top-tier opponents like Arsenal.
The atmosphere at Emirates Stadium reflects the match’s significance. With a capacity for over 60,000 fans, the stadium has been a stage for Arsenal’s standout performances this season, especially in crucial games. Crystal Palace, in turn, relies on their defensive organization and quick transitions to surprise the hosts. So far, the match has been marked by intensity, with chances created on both sides and moments of tension, such as missed shots by Nketiah and Rice.
Key moments of the first half
The first half was packed with excitement, with plays that shaped the partial 2-1 scoreline in Arsenal’s favor. Below Below are the main highlights from the opening 44 minutes:
- 2’ – Arsenal goal: After a precise free-kick, Jakub Kiwior rises alone in the box and heads firmly into the net, opening the score at Emirates Stadium.
- 26’ – Crystal Palace goal: In a rehearsed corner routine, Adam Wharton crosses to Eberechi Eze, who strikes first-time, hitting the corner past goalkeeper David Raya.
- 41’ – Arsenal goal: Jurriën Timber finds Trossard at the edge of the box, and the Belgian forward makes an individual move before curling a shot to restore Arsenal’s lead.
- 29’ – Palace missed chance: Eddie Nketiah shoots from inside the box, but the ball goes wide, wasting a clear chance to equalize.
- 36’ – Dangerous foul: Eze commits a foul on an Arsenal player, halting a promising move by the Gunners in midfield.
Match context in the Premier League
The 2024/25 Premier League season has been marked by a fierce battle at the top of the table. Liverpool, with 79 points from 33 games, lead comfortably, driven by a consistent campaign that includes 24 wins. Arsenal, with 66 points from 34 matches, hold second place but face pressure from teams like Manchester City (61 points) and Nottingham Forest (60 points), who also dream of the top spot. A win against Crystal Palace is vital for the Gunners, not only for the title race but also to secure a direct Champions League spot.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have had an up-and-down season. With 11 wins, 12 draws, and 11 losses, Oliver Glasner’s side sit comfortably mid-table, far from the relegation zone but without major ambitions in the competition. The team has stood out for their defensive solidity, with players like Marc Guéhi and Maxence Lacroix, but struggles to convert chances into goals, as seen in missed shots by Nketiah and Kamada in the first half.
The rivalry between Arsenal and Crystal Palace has historically favored the Gunners. In the last 21 head-to-head matches, Arsenal won 12, while Palace triumphed in just three, with six draws. In the first leg this season, Arsenal thrashed Crystal Palace 5-1 at Selhurst Park, with Gabriel Jesus starring by scoring twice. This record boosts Arsenal fans’ confidence, but Palace have shown they can pull off upsets, especially in games at the Emirates.
Lineups and tactical approaches
Arsenal lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing possession and speed on the flanks. Mikel Arteta opted for David Raya in goal, with a backline of Jurriën Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. In midfield, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, and Martin Ødegaard provide balance and creativity, while Sterling, Trossard, and Martinelli form the attacking trio. The choice of Trossard as a starter reflects Arteta’s trust in the Belgian’s ability to deliver in key moments, as evidenced by his goal at the 41st minute.
Crystal Palace adopted a 3-6-1 setup, emphasizing defensive compactness and quick transitions. Dean Henderson is in goal, protected by defenders Jefferson Lerma, Maxence Lacroix, and Marc Guéhi. In midfield, Daniel Muñoz, Asher Devenny, Adam Wharton, Daichi Kamada, Eberechi Eze, and Tyrick Mitchell form a robust line, with Eddie Nketiah as the lone striker. Glasner’s strategy hinges on counterattacks, leveraging Eze’s speed and Nketiah’s movement to create danger.
Both managers’ tactical choices reflect their distinct objectives. While Arsenal aim to impose their game at home with high possession (averaging 58% this season), Crystal Palace adopt a reactive stance, exploiting gaps left by the Gunners. So far, Palace’s approach has worked in parts, as seen in Eze’s goal, but they need to be more clinical in front of goal to push for a draw or upset.
TROSSARD MAKES IT TWO!
Leo re-establishes our advantage with a measured effort into the corner 🔎🔍
🔴 2-1 🟡 (42) pic.twitter.com/alznFzdFlN
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 23, 2025
Individual standouts in the first half
Several players have shone in the first 44 minutes. For Arsenal, Leandro Trossard is the standout, not only for his goal but also for his constant movement and playmaking ability. Jakub Kiwior also deserves praise for his defensive solidity and the opening goal. Declan Rice, despite two wayward shots, has been crucial in transitioning between defense and attack with precise passes and interceptions.
For Crystal Palace, Eberechi Eze is the key figure, with a high-quality goal and active involvement in the attack. The English midfielder averages 2.3 shots per game this season and is Palace’s main creative outlet. Eddie Nketiah, a former Arsenal player, has battled against the tight marking of Saliba and Kiwior but hasn’t found the net. Adam Wharton, with the assist for Eze’s goal, also showed quality on set pieces.
- Trossard (Arsenal): Goal at 41 minutes, 3 shots, 85% pass accuracy.
- Kiwior (Arsenal): Goal at 2 minutes, 2 interceptions, 1 tackle.
- Eze (Crystal Palace): Goal at 26 minutes, 2 shots, 1 foul committed.
- Wharton (Crystal Palace): 1 assist, 78% pass accuracy.
- Rice (Arsenal): 2 shots, 3 completed long passes, 1 interception.
Impact of the result on the table
The outcome of this match will directly affect the Premier League standings. For Arsenal, a win is crucial to keep pressure on Liverpool, though their title chances remain slim. With 18 wins in 34 games, the Gunners have a solid campaign, averaging 1.97 points per match. A loss, however, could confirm Liverpool’s title as early as this round, as noted by fans and analysts on social media.
For Crystal Palace, a positive result at the Emirates would be a significant achievement, especially given their unfavorable record against Arsenal. With 44 points, the team sits comfortably in 12th, but a win could boost confidence for the season’s final stretch. Palace’s average of 1.29 points per game reflects an inconsistent campaign, with struggles to win away (only 4 victories in 17 away games).
The contrasting objectives make the clash even more compelling. While Arsenal play under pressure to delay Liverpool’s title celebrations, Crystal Palace have the chance to play with less responsibility, potentially leading to a bolder second half. Finishing efficiency will be key for both sides, especially after missed chances in the first half.
Numbers and match statistics
The duel between Arsenal and Crystal Palace has been balanced in terms of possession and chances created. At halftime, Arsenal held 57% possession, against 43% for Crystal Palace. The Gunners had 8 shots, 3 on target, while Palace had 6 shots, 2 on goal. The average number of corners also reflects the game’s intensity, with 4 for Arsenal and 3 for Palace.
In the season, Arsenal lead the offensive stats, with 97 goals scored across all competitions, 37 in the Premier League. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have netted 22 goals in the league, with Jean-Philippe Mateta as their top scorer (16 goals). Defensively, Arsenal have conceded 41 goals this season, while Palace average 1.3 goals conceded per game in the Premier League.
- Possession: Arsenal 57%, Crystal Palace 43%.
- Shots: Arsenal 8 (3 on target), Crystal Palace 6 (2 on target).
- Corners: Arsenal 4, Crystal Palace 3.
- Fouls committed: Arsenal 3, Crystal Palace 4.
- Passes completed: Arsenal 312, Crystal Palace 238.
Schedule and upcoming challenges
Wednesday’s clash is just one of many challenges Arsenal and Crystal Palace will face in the coming weeks. For the Gunners, the schedule includes pivotal Premier League and Champions League matches, where they’ll face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals. Below is Arsenal’s upcoming schedule:
- 29/04 – Arsenal vs Leicester (Premier League): Home game against the bottom side, a chance to secure three points.
- 03/05 – Tottenham vs Arsenal (Premier League): A historic London derby.
- 07/05 – PSG vs Arsenal (Champions League): First leg of the semifinal, away.
- 11/05 – Arsenal vs West Ham (Premier League): Final match before the international break.
- 18/05 – Everton vs Arsenal (Premier League): A game that could define their final table position.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, face a less demanding but equally important run to maintain their mid-table spot:
- 27/04 – Crystal Palace vs Manchester United (Premier League): Home game against a direct rival.
- 04/05 – Wolverhampton vs Crystal Palace (Premier League): Away match against a lower-table side.
- 10/05 – Crystal Palace vs Ipswich (Premier League): Chance to earn points at home.
- 17/05 – Brighton vs Crystal Palace (Premier League): Regional derby with local rivalry.
- 25/05 – Crystal Palace vs Southampton (Premier League): Final round of the season.
Expectations for the second half
With the score at 2-1 at halftime, the second half promises even more excitement. Arsenal are likely to maintain their attacking pressure, aiming to extend their lead and secure the three points. Mikel Arteta may make strategic substitutions, such as bringing on Bukayo Saka or Ethan Nwaneri, to refresh the attack. The defensive solidity, led by Saliba and Kiwior, will be tested by Palace’s counterattacks, which may include Eze and potential substitutes like Mateta and Sarr.
Crystal Palace need to improve their finishing to chase a draw or upset. Glasner’s side have shown resilience in away games, but they face a motivated Arsenal side desperate for the win. The Emirates crowd is expected to play a key role, urging the Gunners toward another goal to seal the result.
The refereeing has been steady so far, with few fouls (7 total) and no cards issued. The expectation is that the second half will maintain the same pace, with clear scoring chances for both sides. The ability to capitalize on opportunities will be the deciding factor in determining the winner.
Recent history and rivalry
The Arsenal-Crystal Palace matchup is one of London’s classic derbies, always generating anticipation. While Arsenal dominate the historical record, with 35 wins in 57 encounters, Palace have had memorable moments, like their 3-2 victory in 2019 at the Emirates. In the last six meetings, however, Arsenal have won every time, reinforcing their favoritism for today’s game.
The rivalry is further fueled by the presence of former Arsenal players in Palace’s squad, like Eddie Nketiah, who faces his old club. This connection adds extra spice to the matchup, with Arsenal fans hoping Nketiah doesn’t replicate Eze’s first-half feat.
The 5-1 thrashing in the first leg, led by Gabriel Jesus, remains fresh in fans’ minds. Arsenal dominated that game with 62% possession and 15 shots, showcasing their superiority. Crystal Palace, however, have a chance to pull off an upset and break their losing streak against the Gunners, especially if they exploit gaps in the Arsenal defense.
Importance of the game for fans
For Arsenal supporters, the match against Crystal Palace is more than just three points. It’s a chance to keep alive the faint hope of winning the Premier League title after over 20 years. The 2003/04 campaign, when the Gunners went unbeaten to claim the title, remains a constant memory for fans dreaming of a new era of glory under Arteta.
For Crystal Palace fans, the game is an opportunity to make history. Beating Arsenal at the Emirates would be a remarkable feat, especially in a season where the team aims to cement their place in English football’s elite. The passion of Palace supporters, known for their vibrant backing, could inspire the players to push for a positive result.
The game’s impact is also felt on social media, where fans from both sides share analyses, memes, and banter. The possibility of Liverpool clinching the title this round adds extra tension, with Reds fans closely following the events at the Emirates.
Tactical analysis of the first half
The first half exposed the strengths and weaknesses of both teams. Arsenal controlled possession and created more chances but struggled to convert all their opportunities, as seen in Rice’s wayward shots. Their defensive organization, led by Saliba and Kiwior, was solid, except for Eze’s goal, which came from a set-piece marking lapse.
Crystal Palace showed efficiency on set pieces, with Eze’s goal, but faltered in finishing, with Nketiah and Kamada missing chances. The team managed to neutralize parts of Arsenal’s attack with a well-positioned defensive line but left dangerous gaps, like in Trossard’s goal. Bringing on players like Mateta in the second half could boost Palace’s attacking threat.
The midfield battle was a highlight, with Declan Rice and Thomas Partey facing Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada. Palace’s numerical advantage in midfield, with six players, allowed moments of control, but Arsenal countered with Ødegaard’s technical quality and Trossard’s movement.
WOW 😳
That is some finish, @EbereEze10…#CPFC // #ARSCRY pic.twitter.com/Kas9vtLlCh
— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) April 23, 2025
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