Crystal Palace are gearing up for their maiden voyage into European football as they face Dynamo Kyiv in the UEFA Conference League. This marks a historic moment for the South London club, venturing into the main draw of a major European competition for the first time. After qualifying for Europe following an FA Cup final victory against Manchester City, Palace find themselves in the Conference League due to UEFA regulations regarding multi-club ownership.
Glasner's European Experience: A Key Advantage?
Manager Oliver Glasner, a seasoned campaigner in European competitions, is hoping his experience will guide Crystal Palace through this new challenge. Glasner famously led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022 and subsequently navigated them to the Champions League knockout stages. "Of course I always want to help and support the team as good as I can," Glasner said. "I always try to give my experience, not just in football, but in my life."
Dynamo Kyiv, on the other hand, are playing their home games in Lublin, Poland, due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While they possess more experience in continental football, the neutral venue potentially diminishes their home advantage.
Palace's Form and Tactical Edge
Crystal Palace are entering this match in excellent form, highlighted by their recent dramatic 2-1 win against Premier League leaders Liverpool. Glasner's tactical innovations, including the use of long throws, have proven effective. "We practise it (long throws), it's the chance to score a goal," Glasner explained. "The advantage over a free-kick is that there is no offside. You have to defend a bigger space."
Predictions favour Crystal Palace to secure a 2-1 victory, with Jean-Philippe Mateta tipped as a potential anytime goalscorer. The game is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams likely to find the net.
Betting Odds and Predictions
- Crystal Palace to win: 1.62 (Betway)
- Both Teams To Score: Yes (1.79 on Betway)
- Anytime Goalscorer: Jean-Philippe Mateta (2.10 on Betway)
Will Crystal Palace's momentum and Glasner's European pedigree be enough to overcome Dynamo Kyiv in their Conference League opener? All eyes will be on Lublin to find out.