Both defences have looked too vulnerable so far: Crystal Palace vs Ipswich prediction
The Premier League fourth-round match between Crystal Palace and Ipswich will take place on 12 September at Selhurst Park. The hosts claimed their first league win after two consecutive defeats, while the visitors have lost their last two matches and have already conceded eight goals.
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Crystal Palace: first win and a boost in confidence
Pierre Sage's side began the season with defeats to Everton 2-0 and Manchester City 4-1, but then came from behind twice against Fulham to win 3-2. That victory ended the club's nine-match winless run in the Premier League.
Palace also comfortably beat Middlesbrough 3-0 in the League Cup during the week. Their home league form remains inconsistent, although the last two meetings with Ipswich both ended in 1-0 wins for the London side.
Ipswich: eight goals conceded in three rounds
Ipswich started the season with a 2-1 victory over Sunderland but then lost 5-2 to Manchester United and 2-0 to Liverpool. They have conceded eight goals in three rounds, one of the worst records in the league.
Their run without a clean sheet is particularly concerning, having now reached 22 matches in the top flight. However, the team still have some interesting attacking options, including Julio Enciso, Abdul Fatawu and Daizen Maeda.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Crystal Palace have won their last two matches in all competitions.
- Ipswich have gone 22 consecutive top-flight matches without a clean sheet.
- The last two Premier League meetings between the teams both ended in 1-0 wins for Palace.
The hosts can win a high-scoring match: Crystal Palace vs Ipswich prediction
Both teams are allowing opponents too many opportunities around their own penalty areas, so the match could become quite open. Ipswich have enough pace and quality going forward to exploit the hosts' defensive problems.
However, Palace head into the game after two consecutive wins and look slightly more confident in key moments. Home advantage and a more consistent attack could tilt the contest in favour of the London side.