Crystal Palace vs Arsenal
Premier League
Monday
21st August 2023
Selhurst Park
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of game week 2 of the Premier League fixture between Crystal Palace and Arsenal.
Crystal Palace vs Arsenal: Preview
Crystal Palace form analysis
Palace’s end of season form was inconsistent as they won 1, drew 2 and lost 1 of their final 4 league games. Their sole victory came against relegation battlers Bournemouth (2-0). However, they suffered a defeat to Chelsea (1-2) which dented their top half hopes. Palace scored 4 goals across the 4 games with Eze grabbing 2. However, they failed to score in the defeats to Everton (0-3) and Chelsea (1-2).
Defensively they were reasonably solid, conceding 5 goals while keeping 1 clean sheet. But lapses proved costly against Everton and Chelsea. Their home and away form contrasted – Palace won their final home game but were winless in their last 3 away, conceding 4 goals on their travels. Overall, Palace’s form was inconsistent leading into the summer. Tightening up defensively and finding more attacking threat will be key focus areas in pre-season.
Last weekend against the Blades, Palace took the lead through Edouard’s close range finish after good work from Ayew. Eze and Schlupp combined well in midfield and posed a threat. Defensively Palace were organized and limited the hosts’ chances on goal. Andersen and Guéhi mopped up effectively at the back. It was an assured away performance from Palace to claim the three points.
Arsenal form analysis
Arsenal’s league form leading into the final day was inconsistent, with 2 wins, 1 draw and 1 defeat from their last 4 games. They secured big wins against relegation battlers Leeds (2-1) and Wolves (5-0). However, they dropped points in losses to Tottenham (0-3) and Newcastle (0-2).
Arsenal scored 7 times across the 4 matches, with Jesus, Saka and Xhaka among the goals. But they were kept scoreless by Newcastle and Spurs. Defensively there were some cracks showing, as they conceded 5 goals and kept just 1 clean sheet. The Spurs defeat in particular highlighted vulnerabilities.
Against Forest, Arsenal dominated possession and territory but initially struggled to break down Forest’s defense. Nketiah eventually scored from a corner to give them the lead. Saka added a superb second goal with a long range strike. Arsenal remained in control in the second half though Forest threatened on counterattacks. It was a confident performance from Arsenal to continue their push for the title.
