Arsenal vs Crystal Palace prediction and analysis (26 Oct 2025 at 14:00)
The London derby between Arsenal and Crystal Palace, scheduled for Sunday 26 October 2025 at 14:00 GMT, offers a tantalising blend of contrasting form, squad uncertainty and tactical intrigue. With Arsenal leading the table and Palace eager to upset the rhythm, this match could well tip the balance in their early-season trajectories.
Team news: Injuries, suspensions and starting-line up pointers
Arsenal face the game without their captain Martin Ødegaard, who is sidelined with a medial collateral ligament injury and will miss several weeks of action. In addition, forward Gabriel Jesus, attacker Noni Madueke and midfielder Kai Havertz remain unavailable, raising questions about depth in the attacking third. Central defender Gabriel Magalhães is also doubtful after limping off the last game, with the final call expected on Saturday.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, have fewer headline absentees but remain cautious of their thin margins and past defensive lapses. Manager Oliver Glasner will likely select a back three or five and rely on counter-attacks through the pace of Theophile Kébreau and the creativity of Eberechi Eze.
Head-to-head comparison: Recent meetings and historical context
The two sides met in the spring of 2025 when Arsenal hosted Palace in a 2–2 draw, illustrating how the Eagles can frustrate even the top sides. Historically, Arsenal have dominated this fixture in terms of wins and goal difference, but the recent results suggest Palace have closed the gap when the stakes are lower.
In effect, this tie offers Palace a psychological edge — they know they can leave the Emirates with points if they remain compact and disciplined. Arsenal, on the other hand, remain wary of dropping points to mid-table clubs in the push for the title.
Form and stats analysis: Table position, offensive output and away/home records
Arsenal currently sit atop the Premier League standings with six wins, one draw and one loss, boasting a +12 goal difference. Solid home form has been a major factor. By contrast, Crystal Palace lie around eighth in the table after eight games (three wins, four draws and one loss) and have recorded a +4 goal difference.
Last season Palace finished 12th, with 53 points, 51 goals scored and 51 conceded. Their away record (7-7-5) shows a moderate level of consistency, but the expected goals (xG) suggested room for improvement in front of goal. Arsenal’s attacking unit has been sharper this season, though missing key creative options may reduce that edge.
Tactical analysis: Systems, key duels and underlying themes
Mikel Arteta will likely deploy a 4-3-3 or slight variation, with emphasis on high pressing, quick transitions and wide overloads. Without Ødegaard, the midfield creativity dips slightly; much will rest on Bukayo Saka and the pair in midfield to chip in with goal-threats.
Crystal Palace, by contrast, tend to favour a 3-4-2-1 or 5-4-1 formation, built around defensive structure and rapid transitions via the wings. Their key duel will centre around opponent full-backs and the ability of Palace’s wing-backs to escape the press. If Palace can stifle Arsenal’s wide attacks and force central play, they may dampen their hosts’ rhythm.
Prediction and forecast: Winners, scoreline and betting angle
Given Arsenal’s superior form and home record, they enter as clear favourites. However, their injury list and Palace’s resilience suggest this will not be a straightforward win. A likely outcome is a 2–1 victory for Arsenal. Key betting angles: Over 2.5 goals, and both teams to score appear credible bets. Arsenal to win and both teams to score could offer good value.
Summary
This match is a test of Arsenal’s ambition and depth, against a Palace side adept at the under-dog role. Injury concerns for the hosts could open the door for the visitors, but the bigger picture favours the Gunners. If they control tempo and limit turnovers, they should maintain momentum. Still, Palace will make it uncomfortable — and that makes it worth watching.