Crystal Palace Aims for European Quarter-Finals Against AEK Larnaca

Crystal Palace is set to face AEK Larnaca in Cyprus this evening, determined to penetrate the opposing defense and secure their inaugural spot in the European quarter-finals.

A Must-Win Situation for the Eagles

Following a goalless draw in the first leg, where they dominated possession yet couldn’t find the net, the Eagles find themselves in a crucial “must-win” situation. Manager Oliver Glasner’s team has recorded two consecutive matches without scoring, now confronting a Larnaca side that has kept them at bay twice this season. Alarmingly, only two of Palace’s last six outings across all competitions have resulted in both teams finding the back of the net, underscoring a solid defense that lacks finishing prowess.

Key Player Updates

Oliver Glasner leads a squad that welcomes back an important defender while still missing their first-choice goalkeeper. He confirmed that Daniel Muñoz is fit to return and is expected to reclaim his place in the starting lineup, providing a more natural fit on the right side compared to recent adjustments.

However, Dean Henderson will not participate due to illness and has remained behind. Palace has notably earned the second-most corners in the Conference League this season, totaling 52, and will rely on their set-piece effectiveness to challenge a Larnaca team that hasn’t conceded in their last 315 minutes of play.

Expected Line-Up and Strategy

With Henderson out, Walter Benítez is anticipated to take his position in goal. The defensive trio is likely to consist of Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix, and the young Canvot. In midfield, Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada will aim to deliver creative opportunities for forwards Ismaïla Sarr and Evann Guessand.

Jørgen Strand Larsen is poised to spearhead the attack, while Jean-Philippe Mateta offers a strong option from the bench as Palace strives for their first goal against the Cypriot opponents after three prior encounters.

Crystal Palace Predicted XI (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Benítez
• Defenders: Richards, Lacroix, Canvot
• Midfielders: Johnson, Kamada, Wharton, Mitchell
• Forwards: Sarr, Guessand, Strand Larsen

Match Details

The Conference League match will be held at the AEK Arena on Thursday, March 19, 2026, kicking off at 17:45 GMT.

Viewers in the UK can watch the match live on TNT Sports 3 and discovery+.