Crystal Palace (4-6-9) vs. Brentford (5-4-9)
Crystal Palace vs. Brentford 12/30/23 – In the highly competitive arena of the EPL, a keenly anticipated match is set to unfold at Selhurst Park on Saturday featuring Crystal Palace and Brentford. This mid-table clash promises to be a tactically intriguing encounter. Both teams, eager to improve their league standings, will bring their best to this game, making it a prime candidate for multi-handicapper premium tips.
Crystal Palace’s attacking force is led by Odsonne Edouard, Michael Olise and Jordan Ayew. Edouard stands out with 6 goals from 15 starts as an important threat upfront; his ability to find spaces and convert opportunities will be vital in getting past Brentford’s defense. Adding depth is Olise (3 goals in 7 games) and Ayew (2 goals). Their creativity and versatility present considerable challenge against Brentford’s defensive setup while Palace must exploit any defensive gaps to maximize scoring opportunities.
Brentford’s offense, led by Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa and Neal Maupay has displayed signs of brilliance this season. Mbeumo, with 7 goals and 3 assists, stands as their chief attacking threat; his pace and finishing ability will test Crystal Palace’s defense. Wissa and Maupay both contribute 4 and 2 goals respectively to their team’s offensive arsenal; their combined efforts could pose major problems to Palace’s backline; thus ultimately determining the outcome of this matchup.
Crystal Palace vs. Brentford 12/30/23 Game Info
When: | Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 10:00 AM ET |
Where: | Selhurst Park |
TV: | PEAC |
Stream: | TBD |
Dean Henderson GK vs. Mark Flekken GK
The Crystal Palace goalkeeper, Dean Henderson comes into this match untested in the Premier League but with high potential. As a new arrival to the Eagles, he will be eager to make an immediate impact and demonstration his shot-stopping abilities. However, he faces a Brentford attack that has scored the 8th most goals in the league. If the Palace defense fails to track the dangerous runners Mbeumo and Wissa, the keeper could be left exposed on several occasions. Still, his pedigree suggests he should be up to the task to keep Palace in the game.
Between the sticks for Brentford stands an experienced shot-stopper, Mark Flekken who has faced the 7th most shots in the EPL this season. Yet despite the barrage, he has managed 3 clean sheets behind a questionable back line. His save percentage of 71% ranks among the top half of goalkeepers and demonstrates his reliability. While the Eagles offer an inconsistent attack, they have enough pace and creativity in wide areas to stretch the Brentford defense. If they can work the ball to Édouard in central areas, he has the finishing ability to beat the keeper. Nonetheless, Brentford’s goalkeeper gives them a fighting chance if the game opens up.
Soccer Odds/Point Spread: Crystal Palace +150, Total Odds: 2.5
The betting odds slightly favor Crystal Palace, reflecting their potential to leverage the home advantage. The spread at -1 +440 for Palace suggests a close match, with Brentford given a +1 -213 spread, indicating expectations of a tightly contested game. The total odds at 2.5 with over -133 and under +105 suggest a moderate scoring game, aligning with both teams’ recent scoring trends.
Crystal Palace Betting Trends
Palace is 2-2 in their last 5 overall but an impressive 6-4 against the spread in home matches. The totals have gone over in just 2 of their last 5 but 4 of their last 9 at Selhurst Park.
Brentford Betting Trends
The Bees are 2-2 in their last 5 but 3-2 against the spread, showing some betting value recently. However, they have struggled on the road, going just 3-5 against the spread. The over has hit in 3 of their last 5 and 8 of their last 10 away.
Crystal Palace vs. Brentford 12/30/23 Betting Picks
This match appears to be evenly matched, with both teams showing similar forms and strengths. Crystal Palace, playing at home, might have a slight edge. However, Brentford’s ability to score cannot be underestimated.
For bettors, focusing on the total goals market could be wise, considering both teams’ trends in scoring. The spread suggests a close match, making a bet on either team risky but potentially rewarding.
In terms of top free EPL picks, the safer bet might be on the total goals, potentially leaning towards the over. However, for those looking for more risk and reward, picking a winner in this closely matched encounter could provide higher returns.
Free Pick and Prediction: Draw 1-1