Crystal Palace host Fiorentina tonight in a historic first-leg quarter-final, aiming to take a major step toward their first European semi-final.
The Eagles have moved into the last eight following a dominant European campaign where they remain unbeaten. Manager Oliver Glasner oversaw a professional Round of 16 victory against AEK Larnaca to set up this clash. Palace reach this stage as one of the competition’s most resilient defensive units, having conceded just six goals in their last six European matches.
Crystal Palace team news
Oliver Glasner manages a squad hit by a significant attacking setback just 24 hours before kick-off. Notably, Eddie Nketiah will miss tonight’s match after suffering a recurring hamstring injury in training on Wednesday.
Consequently, Jean-Philippe Mateta is poised to return to the starting eleven to lead the attack. Notably, Adam Wharton has been passed fit to feature after recovering from a minor issue sustained on international duty.
Dean Henderson returns in goal after more than three weeks out through illness, replacing Walter Benítez. The defence is likely to remain consistent, with Maxence Lacroix and Chris Richards anchoring the back three. In midfield, Daichi Kamada will likely partner Wharton to provide creative flair.
Notably, Ismaïla Sarr and Evann Guessand will look to provide the width to support Mateta. Palace have a strong record in two-legged ties and will rely on that historical resolve to overcome the Italians tonight.
Crystal Palace predicted lineup
Crystal Palace Predicted XI (3-4-2-1): Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Canvot; Johnson, Wharton, Kamada, Mitchell; Sarr, Guessand; Mateta
When will the match kick off?
The UEFA Conference League quarter-final at Selhurst Park officially begins tonight, Thursday, 9 April, at 20:00 BST.
How to watch Crystal Palace vs Fiorentina?
UK viewers can watch the match live on TNT Sports 1 and stream via the discovery+ app.
Read more- Nottingham Forest set massive asking price for Elliot Anderson
See Also- “He has the DNA” – Amad backs Carrick for Manchester United job