Crystal Palace vs Newcastle Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Sunday, April 12th
This Sunday, April 12th, Premier League action continues as Crystal Palace take on Newcastle at Selhurst Park. In this Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, we delve into a fixture where Crystal Palace aim to capitalise on their home advantage against a Newcastle side looking to climb the league table. Both teams are eager to secure crucial points, making this an intriguing encounter for fans and bettors alike.
Selhurst Park will be the stage for this clash, where Crystal Palace will seek to leverage their familiarity with the venue against Newcastle’s travelling squad. With both teams experiencing fluctuating performances this season, the match promises to be a tightly contested affair. As the Premier League race heats up, every point counts, and this matchup could have significant implications for both teams’ standings.
Crystal Palace vs Newcastle Prediction & Betting tip
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Both teams to score in the first half: yes | 4.1 |
Given that both Crystal Palace and Newcastle have been involved in games with goals at both ends, our recommended betting tip is ‘Both Teams to Score’. This is a sensible choice considering the attacking tendencies and defensive vulnerabilities of both sides.
- Crystal Palace have conceded 1.2 goals on average this season, which indicates they are likely to let in at least one goal.
- The last time these teams met at Selhurst Park, the game ended in a 1-1 draw, showing a propensity for both teams to find the net.
- Newcastle’s aggressive attacking play and high pressing often result in early chances, increasing the likelihood of goals from both teams.
Betting Odds
In this Premier League clash, Newcastle are the slight favourites with betting odds of 2.31, reflecting their strong form this season. Crystal Palace, playing at home, are priced at 3.06, which could be tempting for those backing a home upset.
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Crystal Palace to win | 3.06 |
| Draw | 3.44 |
| Newcastle to win | 2.31 |
A draw stands at 3.44, suggesting that bookmakers see it as a viable outcome. With both teams having a knack for scoring, punters might also want to explore the over 2.5 goals market for some added excitement.
Crystal Palace Analysis & Past Performance
Crystal Palace have been in commendable form recently, remaining unbeaten in their last five matches with three wins and two draws. This includes an impressive 3-0 victory against Fiorentina in the Conference League. Their recent performances highlight a strong defensive setup, with the team keeping three clean sheets, indicating a solid backline.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal Palace | Fiorentina | 3 – 0 (Win) | Conference League Knockout Stage | Apr 9, 2026 |
| AEK Larnaca | Crystal Palace | 1 – 1 (Extra time: 0 – 1) (Win) | Conference League Knockout Stage | Mar 19, 2026 |
| Crystal Palace | Leeds | 0 – 0 (Draw) | Premier League | Mar 15, 2026 |
| Crystal Palace | AEK Larnaca | 0 – 0 (Draw) | Conference League Knockout Stage | Mar 12, 2026 |
| Tottenham | Crystal Palace | 1 – 3 (Win) | Premier League | Mar 5, 2026 |
Recent Form:
- WWDDW
In their last five games, Crystal Palace’s attack has averaged 1.60 goals per match, while their defence has been remarkably tight, conceding only 0.40 goals on average. At home, they have shown resilience, winning three out of five matches, translating to a win ratio of 0.60. Their ability to keep clean sheets has been pivotal, with a clean sheet ratio of 0.60 during this period. Jean-Philippe Mateta’s contribution has been significant, being their top scorer with eight goals. However, the team needs to improve their goal-scoring consistency to better their league position, as they currently sit 14th with 39 points.
Crystal Palace Suspensions & Injuries
Crystal Palace face a tactical reshuffle with Cheick Doucouré sidelined due to a knee injury, expected to return in late April 2026. His absence in midfield is significant, as Doucouré has been pivotal in transitioning play and maintaining defensive solidity. The team might rely more heavily on Jefferson Lerma and Will Hughes to fill this void, potentially affecting their defensive resilience and ability to control the midfield against Newcastle.
Eddie Nketiah’s strain injury, with a mid-April 2026 expected return, also poses a challenge for Crystal Palace’s attacking options. Although not listed in the current starting lineup, his pace and finishing ability could have provided an alternative attacking threat. Jørgen Strand Larsen will need to step up as the primary forward, supported by Brennan Johnson, to ensure Palace remain potent in attack.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Cheick Doucouré | knee injury | Late April 2026 |
| Eddie Nketiah | strain injury | Mid April 2026 |
Coach Oliver Glasner may have to adjust his formation slightly to accommodate these absences, possibly leaning towards a more conservative approach to protect the midfield and defensive lines. This could influence Crystal Palace’s overall strategy, making them more cautious and reliant on counter-attacks against a strong Newcastle side.
The unavailability of these players might influence the betting markets, with Crystal Palace potentially seen as less likely to dominate possession and more reliant on set-pieces and quick transitions. These tactical shifts could impact Crystal Palace’s odds and appeal to bettors looking for value in alternative outcomes.
Crystal Palace Key Players
Crystal Palace’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Jean-Philippe Mateta, who stands as the team’s top scorer with 8 goals. His ability to find the net from various positions makes him a constant threat to Newcastle’s defence. Mateta’s physical presence and sharp finishing skills are likely to be pivotal in breaking down the opposition’s defensive line. Alongside him, Jørgen Strand Larsen will play a crucial role in the forward line, providing essential support and creativity.
Will Hughes and Jefferson Lerma are expected to dominate the midfield, with Hughes’ vision and passing range setting the tempo, while Lerma’s tenacity ensures solid defensive cover. Ismaïla Sarr’s pace and dribbling on the wings can stretch Newcastle’s defence, creating opportunities for Crystal Palace to exploit. Defensively, Maxence Lacroix’s commanding presence will be vital in organising the backline and thwarting Newcastle’s attacking advances.
Expected lineup for Crystal Palace:
- Goalkeeper: Walter Benítez
- Defence: Jaydee Canvot, Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix
- Midfield: Will Hughes, Ismaïla Sarr, Jefferson Lerma, Evann Guessand, Tyrick Mitchell, Brennan Johnson
- Forward: Jørgen Strand Larsen
Crystal Palace Tactics and Formation
Crystal Palace Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Jørgen Strand Larsen
- Midfield Pivot: Will Hughes and Jefferson Lerma
- Defensive Strength: Three-man defence with Chris Richards at its core.
- Notable Strategy: Wing play and overlapping runs from Tyrick Mitchell and Ismaïla Sarr.
Crystal Palace’s 3-4-2-1 formation provides a robust defensive structure while allowing flexibility in attack. The defensive trio of Jaydee Canvot, Chris Richards, and Maxence Lacroix offers both aerial prowess and composure, crucial for maintaining clean sheets as seen in their recent European victory against Fiorentina.
Offensively, Jørgen Strand Larsen leads the line, supported by the dynamic Brennan Johnson and Evann Guessand. The midfield, anchored by Will Hughes and Jefferson Lerma, focuses on ball retention and distribution, enabling swift transitions from defence to attack.
Tyrick Mitchell and Ismaïla Sarr’s roles as wing-backs are pivotal, providing width and crossing opportunities. Their overlapping runs create additional attacking options, a strategy that has proven effective in recent matches, contributing to a strong home form with three wins and two draws in the last five home games.
Newcastle Analysis & Past Performance
Newcastle’s recent form has been inconsistent, with their last five matches yielding just one win against Chelsea (0-1), a draw against Barcelona (1-1), and notable losses such as a 7-2 defeat to Barcelona and a 1-2 loss to Sunderland. This sequence highlights their struggles against top-tier opposition, particularly in cup competitions.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle | Sunderland | 1 – 2 (Loss) | Premier League | 22 Mar, 2026 |
| Barcelona | Newcastle | 7 – 2 (Loss) | Champions League Knockout Stage | 18 Mar, 2026 |
| Chelsea | Newcastle | 0 – 1 (Win) | Premier League | 14 Mar, 2026 |
| Newcastle | Barcelona | 1 – 1 (Draw) | Champions League Knockout Stage | 10 Mar, 2026 |
| Newcastle | Manchester City | 1 – 3 (Loss) | FA Cup | 7 Mar, 2026 |
Recent Form:
In terms of scoring, Newcastle have averaged 1.20 goals per match over their last five games, while conceding an average of 2.60 goals. This disparity underscores defensive vulnerabilities, further emphasised by only one clean sheet in this period. Despite scoring in each of their last five matches, the team has struggled to convert these efforts into victories, as indicated by their 20% win ratio.
Away Performance:
On the road, Newcastle’s form has been relatively more robust, securing 3 wins in their last 5 away matches, equating to a 60% win ratio. Yet, their defensive frailties remain evident with just one clean sheet in ten away fixtures, conceding an average of 2.20 goals per game. The attacking duo, led by Bruno Guimarães with 9 goals this season, remains pivotal in overcoming these defensive challenges.
League Standings:
- LLWDL
Currently, Newcastle sit mid-table in 12th place with 42 points. Their position reflects a season of mixed outcomes, characterised by a 39% win ratio. The team needs to bolster its defensive strategies significantly to climb the standings and improve their overall league performance.
Newcastle Suspensions & Injuries
Newcastle face some significant challenges with key players sidelined due to injuries. The absence of both Fabian Schär and Bruno Guimarães is particularly impactful, as each plays a crucial role in the defensive and midfield setups, respectively. Schär’s ankle injury and Guimarães’s muscle injury, both expected to be resolved by mid-April, have left a noticeable gap that could affect the team’s stability. Eddie Howe might have to rely on less experienced players to fill these roles, which could test the team’s depth and adaptability.
With Emil Krafth out due to a long-term knee injury, Newcastle’s defensive options are further limited. The inclusion of Malick Thiaw in the starting lineup suggests Howe’s trust in his abilities to step up in the absence of Sven Botman, who was also missing from recent lineups. This reshuffle in defence could lead to tactical adjustments, possibly affecting Newcastle’s usual defensive solidity.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Emil Krafth | knee injury | Early June 2026 |
| Fabian Schär | ankle injury | Mid April 2026 |
| Lewis Miley | knee injury | Doubtful |
| Bruno Guimarães | muscle injury | Mid April 2026 |
The tactical impact of these injuries may force Newcastle to adopt a more conservative approach, potentially impacting their attacking fluidity. The absence of Guimarães, in particular, might necessitate a shift in midfield dynamics, with Joelinton likely taking on more creative responsibilities. This scenario could influence betting markets, as Newcastle’s ability to maintain their usual high standards might be questioned due to these critical absences.
Newcastle Key Players
Newcastle’s offensive thrust will heavily rely on Anthony Gordon, expected to lead the line as the sole forward. Gordon’s ability to exploit spaces with his pace and agility makes him a constant threat to Crystal Palace’s defence. His knack for finding the back of the net will be crucial, especially in the absence of their top scorer, Bruno Guimarães.
In midfield, the dynamic duo of Jacob Ramsey and Anthony Elanga will be pivotal. Ramsey’s vision and passing range can unlock defences, while Elanga’s dribbling skills and pace can stretch the opposition. Joelinton, with his physical presence and box-to-box capabilities, adds another dimension, providing both defensive solidity and offensive support.
Expected lineup for Newcastle
- Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
- Defence: Kieran Trippier, Malick Thiaw, Daniel Burn, Lewis Hall
- Midfield: Jacob Ramsey, Nick Woltemade, Anthony Elanga, Harvey Barnes, Joelinton
- Forward: Anthony Gordon
Defensively, Kieran Trippier’s experience and leadership will be vital. As a right-back, he not only contributes defensively but also supports the attack with his crossing ability. Malick Thiaw, as a central defender, brings aerial prowess and composure, crucial for handling Crystal Palace’s attacking threats. Together, their contributions will shape Newcastle’s tactical approach, balancing offensive ambition with defensive resilience.
Newcastle Tactics and Formation
Newcastle Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Anthony Gordon
- Midfield Pivot: Jacob Ramsey and Nick Woltemade
- Defensive Strength: Challenges in maintaining clean sheets, only one in the last five games
- Notable Strategy: High pressing and dynamic wing play.
Newcastle United’s 4-2-3-1 formation is designed to provide a balance between defensive solidity and attacking prowess. With Jacob Ramsey and Nick Woltemade operating as the midfield pivot, the team aims to control the tempo in the middle of the park while supporting both defensive and offensive transitions.
Defensively, the backline led by Kieran Trippier and Daniel Burn is tasked with maintaining discipline and organisation. However, the absence of Sven Botman due to injury may necessitate a reshuffle, potentially impacting their defensive cohesion. This setup has struggled recently, conceding 13 goals in the last five games.
Offensively, Anthony Gordon spearheads the attack, supported by creative outlets like Joelinton and Harvey Barnes on the wings. Newcastle’s strategy focuses on high pressing and exploiting spaces on the flanks, aiming to disrupt opponent defences and create goal-scoring opportunities.
Crystal Palace vs Newcastle H2H Record
In their last 30 encounters, Newcastle have dominated the head-to-head record with 16 wins compared to Crystal Palace’s 5, alongside 11 draws. The most recent meeting saw Newcastle secure a 2-0 victory at home in the Premier League earlier this year.
When Crystal Palace last hosted Newcastle at Selhurst Park in November 2024, the match ended in a 1-1 draw. Historically, Palace have struggled to assert themselves at home against Newcastle, with only one win in their last five home fixtures.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newcastle United | Crystal Palace | 2 – 0 | Premier League | 2026-01-04 |
| Newcastle United | Crystal Palace | 5 – 0 | Premier League | 2025-04-16 |
| Crystal Palace | Newcastle United | 1 – 1 | Premier League | 2024-11-30 |
| Crystal Palace | Newcastle United | 2 – 0 | Premier League | 2024-04-24 |
| Newcastle United | Crystal Palace | 4 – 0 | Premier League | 2023-10-21 |
