Crystal Palace are sliding down the Premier League standings at an alarming rate, and they remain in danger of being dragged into the relegation scrap. Unfortunately for them, things may not improve on this trip to bitter rivals Brighton. Billed as a derby dust-up in the loosest of terms, this south-coast contest looks set to be a real war of attrition, as hosts Brighton are in not much better shape than Sunday’s visitors.
Backing a draw is our prediction, as neither side can be trusted to secure a victory in a match which each will be determined just not to lose. That could lead to a cagey contest, and the Seagulls have become used to those, as 4 of their last 5 home matches have finished all-square.
Between them they have drawn 18 times in the league this term, and November’s 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park featured just 5 shots on target in a long-forgotten stalemate. Things might be slightly better in this return fixture, but it’s unlikely the floodgates will open at the Amex Stadium.
Four of Brighton’s last 5 home matches have finished 1-1, and there may be a feeling of deja vu among the Amex faithful on Sunday afternoon. A derby draw isn’t the worst result usually, but both sides need more as they each slip down the table faster than they would like.
Palace’s last visit yielded a 3-1 victory, but those were the heady days of joy — when there was a great team spirit and the Eagles were all flying in the same direction. Since then, club captain Marc Guehi has left, boss Oliver Glasner has said he will leave and top scorer Jean-Philippe Mateta had 1 foot out of the exit door, only to be dragged back inside following the collapse of his move to Milan on transfer deadline day.
It’s a sorry situation at the home of the FA Cup holders right now, and spirits are unlikely to be lifted by a jaunt to the seaside on Sunday, where draw looks the best bet.
Brighton vs Crystal Palace prediction: Draw (+250) at the time of publishing. Playable to +230.
Bet like a Caesar with this AMAZING new customer offer from Caesars Sportsbook. If you bet just $1, you’ll receive DOUBLE YOUR WINNINGS on your next 20 bets! Become a Caesars member 👥 using the Caesars promo code PWCONTENT20X, where you can bet on our Brighton vs Crystal Palace picks.
Location
Favorite Sports
Favorite Teams
Greatest Betting Win
Greatest Achievements
Education
Experience
Favorite betting market / type
