Ipswich Town vs Crystal Palace: Match Preview and Predictions

As the Premier League season unfolds, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace are set to clash in a crucial match that could impact their positions in the league standings. Both teams have struggled recently and are separated only by goal difference, laying the groundwork for a tightly contested game at Portman Road.

Recent Form

Ipswich Town suffered a setback in their last match, falling to Nottingham Forest 1-0, which halted their brief unbeaten streak. After facing strong opponents like Tottenham, Manchester United, and Leicester City, they now find themselves in 19th place in the league. The Tractor Boys have yet to secure their first home win of the season, with their last match at home resulting in a draw, highlighting their struggles to convert chances into victories.

On the other hand, Crystal Palace managed to secure a last-minute draw against Newcastle United, showcasing their resilience. Although they have had a mixed bag of results recently, with one win in their last six matches, the Eagles have found some form on the road, scoring in their last three away games. They currently sit slightly above Ipswich, clinging to 17th place due to goal difference.

Team News

Ipswich Town

Injuries have added to Ipswich's woes, with defender Axel Tuanzebe expected to miss the long-term due to a hamstring issue. Other notable absentees include Janoi Donacien, George Hirst, and Chiedozie Ogbene. Manager Kieran McKenna will need to adjust his lineup, possibly rotating players like Wes Burns and Jack Clarke into starting roles to enhance their attacking efforts.

Possible Starting XI:
Muric; H. Clarke, O'Shea, Burgess, Davis; Morsy, Cajuste; Burns, Hutchinson, J. Clarke; Delap

Crystal Palace

For Palace, there were no new injury concerns following their previous encounter. However, Eberechi Eze returns to full fitness and is likely to feature prominently. Daichi Kamada is still serving a suspension, which adds to their list of sidelined players. Palace will hope to capitalize on their attacking strengths to turn their mixed fortunes around against Ipswich.

Possible Starting XI:
Henderson; Lacroix, Chalobah, Guehi; Munoz, Doucoure, Lerma, Mitchell; Eze; Nketiah, Mateta

Predictions and Key Stats

With both teams having difficulties keeping clean sheets, this match promises to be entertaining. Ipswich have drawn four of their last five home games, whereas Palace have a tendency to score on the road. Sports Mole predicts a narrow victory for Crystal Palace, potentially ending the match Ipswich Town 1 - 2 Crystal Palace. Betting enthusiasts might find value in taking Ipswich at 0.0 on the Asian Handicap, given their potential to turn the tide at home.

Key Statistics:

• Ipswich have only achieved one victory in their last ten matches.
• Crystal Palace’s away form includes recent scoring success with multiple goals.
• Both teams have recorded a significant number of draws, indicating closely matched capabilities.

As the match draws closer, fans will be eager to see how these two struggling teams approach the game. Will Ipswich finally break their home winless streak, or can Crystal Palace continue their upward trajectory? The stage is set for an exciting encounter.