Crystal Palace host AEK Larnaca in the UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16 first leg at Selhurst Park
Crystal Palace host AEK Larnaca on March 12 in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League round of 16 tie, with Oliver Glasner’s side looking to gain an advantage before the return leg in Cyprus.
The match will be played at Selhurst Park, where Palace will be seeking revenge after AEK Larnaca stunned them earlier in the season to become the first Cypriot club to win on English soil.
AEK secured a famous 0-1 victory in London during the Conference League league phase in October, a result that sent shockwaves through the competition and boosted their European reputation.
Palace arrive in confident mood after an impressive 1-3 away victory against Tottenham, while AEK head into the tie following a turbulent week that saw the departure of head coach Imanol Idiakez.
Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca: First leg preview
Palace will view the first leg as an opportunity to take control of the tie before travelling to Cyprus for the return fixture on March 19 in Larnaca.
Glasner’s team have shown strong form in recent weeks, and their victory over Tottenham highlighted the attacking threat they possess when their forward line clicks.
However, the Premier League side will be wary of underestimating AEK Larnaca after their earlier defeat to the Cypriot club.
AEK’s victory at Selhurst Park in October demonstrated their ability to compete with stronger opponents, particularly when playing with a disciplined defensive structure and attacking quickly on the counter.
The Cypriot side also remain competitive domestically, currently third in the Cyprus First Division, although they sit eight points behind leaders Omonoia.
AEK Larnaca form and managerial change
AEK arrive in London during a period of transition after parting ways with head coach Imanol Idiakez last week.
Despite performing strongly in Europe this season, inconsistent results in the league ultimately led to the decision to make a change in the dugout.
The new AEK Larnaca head coach is Javi Rozada, who was announced late on Monday night by the club, joining from Freedom24-Krasava ΕΝΥ
The timing adds an additional layer of unpredictability ahead of the first leg, as teams often respond with renewed energy following a managerial departure.
What happened when Palace faced AEK earlier this season?
The previous meeting between the two clubs produced one of the standout results of the Conference League campaign.
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AEK Larnaca secured a 0-1 win at Selhurst Park thanks to a second-half strike from Riad Bajić, becoming the first club from Cyprus to win a competitive match in England.
That historic victory will provide confidence for the visitors, while Palace will be determined to avoid a repeat result in front of their home supporters.
Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca team news
Crystal Palace have a number of injury problems for Thursday’s game against AEK. Eddie Nketiah and Cheick Doucoure are out for the foreseeable future, but Jean-Philippe Mateta is back in the squad after a long time out with a knee problem.
Oliver Glasner clarified in his pre-match press conference that Mateta will be in the squad but is certainly not ready to play 90 minutes.
“He didn’t train for five or six weeks on the pitch, and he’s now back for three days, so no chance [of playing 90 minutes],” said Glasner.
“But, it’s good to have him back. He showed in training he’s always able to create chances, score goals, and that’s why it’s good to have him back.”
Right-back Daniel Muñoz suffered a shoulder injury against Tottenham and had to be withdrawn, ruling out his participation in Thursday’s game.
AEK Larnaca will be without experienced French centre-back Valentin Roberge while wingers Youssef Amyn and Waldo Rubio are also injured.
Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca Prediction
Crystal Palace enter the first leg in strong form and good spirits following their victory over Tottenham as well as a rest over the weekend.
Those three points against Spurs saw them reach 38 points in the Premier League, all but securing their status in the top division, meaning they may now play in Europe with more freedom and less concern about the league.
AEK, on the other hand, enter the game on the back of a turbulent week following a managerial change. However, they did earn a morale boosting 3-0 win over struggling Chloraka on the weekend.
While AEK have performed well in Europe over the last two seasons and proved they are a capable side in the previous fixture between the two sides, the quality and strength in the Crystal Palace should be enough to secure victory in the first leg.
Prediction: Crystal Palace 2-0 AEK Larnaca
Where to watch Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca
Fans in the UK can watch Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca live on TNT Sports 2.
Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 UK time at Selhurst Park.
