Crystal Palace conclude their pre-season preparations with a intriguing encounter against Norwegian outfit Fredrikstad FK at a sold-out Selhurst Park on Wednesday evening. This final tune-up offers manager Oliver Glasner one last chance to assess his squad before the Premier League campaign kicks off.
Team News & Expected Lineups
The Eagles will be without several key players for this fixture. Midfield lynchpin Adam Wharton remains sidelined with an ankle ligament injury sustained in training, joining long-term absentee Michael Olise on the treatment table. The French winger's anticipated move to Bayern Munich has cast a shadow over pre-season.
Glasner is expected to field a strong starting XI, blending experience with youth. Dean Henderson should start between the posts, protected by a back four of Daniel Muñoz, Joachim Andersen, Marc Guéhi, and Tyrick Mitchell. In midfield, the industrious duo of Jefferson Lerma and Will Hughes is predicted to start, supporting an attacking trio of Eberechi Eze, Jordan Ayew, and the exciting young talent Matheus França. Jean-Philippe Mateta will lead the line as the central striker.
Tactical Preview & What to Watch For
This friendly represents more than just a fitness exercise for Palace. It's a crucial opportunity for Glasner to fine-tune his aggressive, high-pressing system against competitive opposition. Fredrikstad, currently mid-season in Norway's Eliteserien, will provide a stern test with their match sharpness.
All eyes will be on how Palace adapt without the creative genius of Olise and the metronomic presence of Wharton. The attacking impetus will fall heavily on the shoulders of Eze, who will be tasked with unlocking a disciplined Fredrikstad defence. The performance of França, who netted in the recent 2-1 victory over Wolves, will also be closely monitored by the Selhurst Park faithful.
Prediction & Betting Insight
Despite the absentees, Palace's superior quality and home advantage should see them through. Fredrikstad's match fitness could make this a competitive affair early on, but the Eagles' Premier League class is expected to tell as the game progresses.
Our Prediction: Crystal Palace 3-1 Fredrikstad
Key Betting Tip: With Palace's firepower and Fredrikstad likely to tire, backing Over 2.5 Goals offers strong value. Jean-Philippe Mateta, full of confidence after a strong end to last season, is an excellent candidate to find the net anytime.
This fixture serves as the perfect curtain-raiser for the new season, offering fans a glimpse of what to expect under Glasner's revolutionary tactics before the real business begins.
