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Premier League action resumes on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with Manchester City hosting Crystal Palace in an early kickoff at the Etihad Stadium. With both clubs eyeing different ambitions—City pushing for a Champions League return and Palace targeting a top-half finish—the stakes are high in this pivotal clash.
Manchester City
Manchester City, currently in fifth place with 51 points, are enduring an uncharacteristically uneven campaign under Pep Guardiola. With 15 wins, 6 draws, and 9 losses, their title aspirations may be fading, but a Champions League berth is still very much in reach. Their +17 goal difference, fueled by 57 goals scored, proves they remain dangerous going forward despite recent misfires.
City’s form at home continues to be a key advantage. The Etihad has seen 9 wins, 3 draws, and 3 defeats so far this season. However, a goalless draw in their last outing against Manchester United showed both their defensive discipline and a worrying lack of clinical edge in attack.
Guardiola’s team remains rooted in possession-heavy football, but with inconsistency creeping in, the need for a strong performance and result this weekend is vital. Players like Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland will be expected to step up and deliver against a confident Palace side.
Palace Overview
Crystal Palace, sitting 11th with 43 points, are enjoying one of their best Premier League seasons in recent memory. Their record of 11 wins, 10 draws, and 9 defeats, along with a positive run of form, places them just outside the European qualification spots.
Palace have thrived on the road this season with 6 wins and only 3 losses away from Selhurst Park. Their most recent victory, a 2-1 result over Brighton, extended their unbeaten run to five matches and showcased their growing belief under manager Oliver Glasner.
Glasner’s influence has been transformative. He’s instilled a high-tempo, transitional style that combines offensive sharpness with solid defensive structure. With attacking threats like Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta, Palace are well-equipped to challenge City’s defense.
Head-to-Head and Form Guide
The last meeting between the two sides ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, with Palace staging a late comeback at Selhurst Park. City still maintain a dominant recent record, winning three of the last five encounters, but the Eagles have avoided defeat in their last two visits to the Etihad.
In terms of recent form, City have won two, drawn two, and lost one of their last five matches in all competitions. Palace, in contrast, are unbeaten in five, with four wins and one draw—a run that reflects their upward momentum heading into this weekend.
Prediction
Manchester City will enter this contest as clear favorites, backed by their home record and superior squad depth. But Crystal Palace’s recent form, particularly on the road, should not be overlooked.
Expect a fiercely contested game with goals from both sides. City’s attacking stars will likely shine at home, but Palace have shown they can trouble the league’s best.
Prediction: Manchester City 3-2 Crystal Palace
