Crystal Palace Faces AEK Larnaca in Conference League Clash

Crystal Palace welcomes AEK Larnaca tonight at Selhurst Park, looking to overcome a prior home setback and gain an advantage in the first leg of the Conference League Round of 16.

Recent Form and Previous Encounter

The Eagles advanced to the Round of 16 following a solid playoff win against Zrinjski Mostar. Under the guidance of manager Oliver Glasner, the team achieved a significant 3–1 victory over Tottenham in their last outing. However, they seek redemption after falling 1–0 to the Cypriot team at home back in October. It’s important to note that Palace has found the net in 11 consecutive matches, a trend of offensive strength they will need to harness against one of the tournament’s top defenses.

Team News and Player Availability

Oliver Glasner is set to field a squad with a vital attacking boost but lacks several key defensive players. Notably, Jean-Philippe Mateta is available for selection again after an absence of eight matches due to a knee injury.

This return provides additional options in attack, although Ismaïla Sarr is likely to retain his spot after netting two goals against Spurs. On the downside, Daniel Muñoz is ruled out with a shoulder injury, and both Cheick Doucouré and Eddie Nketiah remain unavailable.

Key Lineup Decisions

Dean Henderson will take his position in goal, backed by a three-man defense that includes the returning Maxence Lacroix, who missed the last match due to suspension. Nathaniel Clyne is poised to step in for the injured Muñoz as the right wing-back, with Tyrick Mitchell filling the role on the left.

In the midfield, Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada are expected to maintain control for the team. Evann Guessand might be chosen to support Sarr alongside striker Jørgen Strand Larsen as Palace aims to score first for the seventh time in eight matches.

Expected Starting XI (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Henderson
• Defense: Richards, Lacroix, Riad
• Wing-Backs: Clyne, Wharton, Kamada, Mitchell
• Attackers: Sarr, Guessand; Strand Larsen

Match Information

The Conference League match is set for Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Selhurst Park, with kickoff anticipated at 20:00 GMT.

UK supporters can catch the live action on TNT Sports, with highlights available soon after the game concludes on the TNT Sports app.