EFL Cup Quarter-Final Preview: Arsenal vs Crystal Palace
Arsenal welcome Crystal Palace to the Emirates Stadium in the EFL Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday night, with a place in the semi-finals at stake. The Gunners, who currently lead the Premier League, are aiming to move a step closer to ending Mikel Artetaโs wait for his first EFL Cup trophy, while Palace chase a historic run after eliminating Liverpool in the previous round.
Recent Form
Arsenal come into the tie in solid form, having won three consecutive matches across all competitions, including a commanding 3โ0 victory over Preston North End in the EFL Cup. However, they were held to a 0โ0 draw by Everton in their most recent league outing. Despite that setback, Artetaโs side have shown consistency and intensity in cup competition.
Crystal Palace, by contrast, have struggled for league momentum, picking up just one point from their last three matches. That said, their surprise win at Anfield underlined their ability to raise their level in knockout football.
Team News
Arsenal face several injury concerns. Ben White is sidelined with a hamstring strain, while Gabriel Magalhรฃes remains doubtful after being forced off midweek. Long-term absentees include Martin รdegaard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus, leaving Arsenal likely to rely on Viktor Gyรถkeres to lead the line.
Palace are also stretched by injuries. Cheick Doucourรฉ, Chadi Riad, Caleb Kporha, Ismaila Sarr, Daniel Muรฑoz, Daichi Kamada, and Rio Cardines are all unavailable, while Jean-Philippe Mateta is being monitored due to a knee issue. With no fresh injuries reported, Palaceโs squad depth will nevertheless be tested.
Head-to-Head
Arsenal have dominated this fixture historically, winning 36 of 59 meetings and taking four of the last five home games against Palace. The Gunners also edged Palace 3โ2 in the EFL Cup in December 2024, and Palace have not won at the Emirates since 2019.
Key Stats & Outlook
Arsenal have scored first in seven of their last eight meetings with Palace and led at halftime in four of the last five. While Palace carry attacking threat through Eberechi Eze, Arsenalโs pressing and home advantage make them firm favorites. A 2โ0 or 3โ1 Arsenal win appears the most likely outcome.
Discover more from Footy Times
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.