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Crystal Palace head into their UEFA Conference League play-off against Norwegian side Fredrikstad determined to make a statement after a turbulent summer. The London club, managed by Oliver Glasner, were originally set to compete in the Europa League but were relegated to the Conference League following a UEFA ruling. Rather than dwell on the setback, the Eagles have responded with renewed intensity, winning the Community Shield against Liverpool and pushing into the FA Cup Fifth Round, underlining both resilience and depth in their squad.
Injuries have tested Glasner’s resources, with Chadi Riad and Cheick Doucouré sidelined, but the Austrian coach has successfully turned to emerging talents. Midfielder Adam Wharton continues to grow in stature, while new signing Ben Chilwell is gradually building match sharpness after his summer arrival. Despite swirling transfer rumors, Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi remain at the club, giving Palace a blend of stability and star quality that could prove decisive on the European stage.
Fredrikstad’s Determined Challenge
Opponents Fredrikstad arrive in South London very much as underdogs, but they have shown plenty of fight in Norway’s Eliteserien, where they currently sit seventh with 25 points from 17 matches. Coached by Andreas Hagen, the club has impressed with resilience and flashes of attacking verve. Their recent 3-2 victory over Stromsgodset showcased their scoring ability, though a defeat to Midtjylland in the Europa League qualifiers exposed their vulnerabilities against stronger sides.
Fredrikstad’s squad features in-form attackers Henrik Skogvold and Emil Holten, while the defense, anchored by Maxwell Woledzi and Daniel Eid, has struggled to consistently cope with higher-level opposition. The return of goalkeeper Valdemar Birksö from loan strengthens their depth, but keeping Palace’s firepower in check at Selhurst Park will require near-perfect discipline.
Tactical Battle: Possession vs Counterattack
This play-off promises a clash of contrasting styles. Glasner’s Palace are likely to control possession, pressing aggressively to keep Fredrikstad pinned deep. The creative spark of Eze will be central, probing for gaps between the lines, while striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is expected to lead the line and capitalize on chances in the penalty area.
Fredrikstad, by contrast, will likely adopt a compact 4-4-2, looking to frustrate Palace and spring forward through counters and set pieces. Their midfield trio of Connor Metcalfe, Owusu, and Öhlenschlaeger will have to work tirelessly to disrupt Palace’s rhythm and transition quickly when opportunities arise.
Prediction: Palace to Prove Too Strong
The difference in squad depth and European pedigree makes Palace clear favorites. The Eagles have strung together six straight home wins in Europe, while Fredrikstad have lost their last five away games, conceding 13 goals in the process.
Fredrikstad may have enough tenacity to snatch a goal—possibly through Holten or a late set piece—but Palace’s quality and home advantage should see them through comfortably. Glasner will want his side to take control of the tie early and avoid leaving the second leg in doubt.
Prediction: Crystal Palace 3:0 Fredrikstad
