Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur: Team news, how to watch and match preview
Crystal Palace return to the Premier League this weekend looking to make a fresh start after a heavy cup defeat, with Tottenham Hotspur arriving at Selhurst Park under mounting pressure. With both sides sidelined and momentum hard to come by, Sunday’s meeting meant much more than just three points.
advertise
Here’s a look at Crystal Palace news, how to watch the games live and what’s in store for the year in south London as it comes to a close.
PhotoIMAGO
Match context and current form
Crystal Palace go into this game still feeling the aftershocks of their Carabao Cup exit earlier this week. The Eagles showed tenacious counterattacks at the last moment and forced a penalty kick, but ultimately fell short, a result that tested both legs and morale.
However, the league format provides the opportunity to react quickly. Home games have traditionally provided Crystal Palace with a platform to regroup, while Selhurst Park remains a tough task for visiting teams, especially those low on confidence.
advertise
The situation at Tottenham is more complicated. A poor run in the Premier League has seen them slip down the table, with their performances failing to live up to expectations under Thomas Frank. Just one win in their past eight league games has Spurs searching for answers tactically and psychologically. The gap between the mid-table table means a win could change things quickly, but another defeat will deepen the concerns.
Crystal Palace latest news and injuries
Crystal Palace will once again face a glaring absence. Daichi Kamada and Daniel Munoz are both out with injuries, which reduces the team’s depth in key areas. Eddie Nketiah remains unavailable after injury, while Chris Richards is also being assessed ahead of kick-off.
The absence of Ismaila Sarr for the Africa Cup of Nations further limits attacking options. The defensive line-up is also likely to be reshuffled, with Maxence Lacroix being considered after a difficult game in midweek.
advertise
Despite the disruption, Palace have maintained enough continuity to remain competitive, especially at home. Expect the focus to be on organization, controlling oppression and exploiting momentary rather than sustained dominance.
Tottenham Hotspur news and selection questions
Tottenham Hotspur’s problems have been compounded by suspensions and injuries. Xavi Simons and Cristian Romero are both suspended with red cards, while Africa Cup of Nations commitments rule Yves Bissouma and Papu Matar Sarr out of contention.
Destiny Udoji, James Maddison, Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski have also been affected by injuries, leaving Frank lacking experience and leadership in multiple areas of the pitch. Team rotations were forced rather than chosen, leading to inconsistency and a lack of cohesion.
advertise
Selection decisions will depend on availability and strategy, with Spurs likely to prioritize defensive stability after conceding badly in recent weeks.
How to watch Crystal Palace vs Tottenham Hotspur live
The match will be played on Sunday 28 December, with kick-off scheduled for 4.30pm GMT at Selhurst Park.
UK viewers can watch live coverage of Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, starting at 4pm. Subscribers can live stream via Sky Go, allowing fans to follow the action across devices.
Forecasts and Tactical Outlook
This game provides Crystal Palace with the opportunity to capitalize on Tottenham Hotspur’s fragile confidence. While Palace are dealing with their own absences, the structure and intensity at home could tip the balance.
advertise
Tottenham, meanwhile, are still looking for fluidity and clarity. Without a few first-choice players, there is little room for error. If Palace strike early, the mood could quickly turn in their favour.
A disciplined, pragmatic approach from the hosts might be enough to secure the result, especially if Spurs struggle to make their mark.