Fredrikstad vs Crystal Palace Prediction, Preview, News, Odds: 28/8/2025

Fredrikstad’s path to the Conference League play-off has been far from straightforward, following a heavy aggregate defeat to Midtjylland that ended their Europa League hopes. Still, the Norwegian side has shown resilience in domestic competition, claiming back-to-back league wins over Stromsgodset (3-2) and Molde (4-2). Manager Mikkjal Thomassen has built his team around the attacking flair of Emil Holten and Morten Bjorlo, with Bjorlo contributing nine goals and three assists in the Eliteserien. Currently sitting sixth in the league, Fredrikstad approach this tie with belief, but the challenge of taking on a Premier League side away from home presents an entirely different test.

Crystal Palace balancing stability and uncertainty

Crystal Palace arrive with both optimism and question marks surrounding their squad. Manager Oliver Glasner is contending with a turbulent transfer period, as Eberechi Eze edges closer to a move to Arsenal and captain Marc Guehi continues to attract transfer speculation. For now, both players are expected to feature in the first leg, which could be their last appearances in Palace colors. A 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest last weekend highlighted Palace’s fighting spirit, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaïla Sarr offering a glimpse of a promising attacking partnership. However, injuries to key midfielders Cheick Doucouré and Matheus França have forced Glasner to lean on squad depth, with Will Hughes and Adam Wharton stepping up to fill the void.

Tactical clash at Selhurst Park

Fredrikstad are likely to approach the contest with caution, sitting deep and relying on counterattacks to catch Palace off guard. Their midfield, led by Patrick Metcalfe and Stian Stray Molde, will look to disrupt Palace’s flow and transition quickly to Holten in attack. Palace, meanwhile, will aim to assert dominance through possession and width, with overlapping fullbacks expected to stretch the visitors’ compact defense. Glasner’s pressing style and emphasis on vertical play could put Fredrikstad under pressure early, especially with the home crowd driving Palace forward.

Prediction

While Fredrikstad’s determination should not be underestimated, their recent record in Europe and struggles against stronger opposition highlight the scale of the challenge. The Norwegians have suffered 11 defeats in their last 15 top-flight outings, leaving them vulnerable against a Premier League side with superior depth and quality. Palace, though not flawless this season, have recorded eight wins from their last 11 fixtures at this level and look well placed to take control of the tie.

Prediction: Fredrikstad 0 : 3 Crystal Palace