Palace v Brighton 2526 programme

contents

Crystal Palace √ brighton & Hove Albion sun 09 nov 2025 | 2:00pm k.o.

Directors Chairman Steve Parish, David Blitzer, Joshua Harris, Woody Johnson Chief Executive Officer Sharon Lacey Chief Financial Officer Mitesh Velani Club Secretary Christine Dowdeswell Head of Sports Medicine Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad Academy Director Gary Issott Director of U21 Development Mark Bright Chief Operating Officer Jonty Castle Chief Commercial Officer Barry Webber General Counsel David Nichol Head of Ticketing Paul McGowan Head of Retail Foz Bowers Head of Marketing Matt Franks Head of Safeguarding Laura Baptiste Head Groundsman Bruce Elliott

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25 08 captain 34 Talking tactics

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Editor Jack Lacey-Hatton Design Billy Cooke, Stu Ellmer Contributors Robin Johnson,

43 Kevin Phillips 48 academy 52 palace women 54 palace for life

Ed Dowling, Joe Turner,

62 ian king

Alex Connor, Kevin Phillips, Ian King, Tommy Macarthur, Patrick

66 campaign capsule

Rosanio, Sebastian Frej, Alan Russell Photography Neil Everitt, Peter Hurn, Sebastian Frej, Pinnacle Photo Agency, Kontent Haus, Getty Printer Bishops Printers

69 Behind the Lens

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72 Eagle Arcade 74 from the terraces

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04

briefing

weekly briefing

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On this day 09 november 2002

Welcome back to Selhurst Park for today’s match, our final fixture ahead of the November international window.

This weekend’s Premier League matches are taking place over Remembrance weekend, and a special tribute will be held prior to kick-off, with the playing of The Last Post during a moment of silence. The players will be wearing kits embroidered with the poppy during the match. You can find a special tributes to Palace’s fallen heroes on page 64, reflecting on those who players served their country in both the First and Second World Wars. We remember all of those who

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showed such courage, bravery and determination, with many paying the ultimate sacrifice.

Today’s match takes place on the ninth anniversary of the tragic events of 9th November, 2016, which saw seven people lose their lives while travelling on a Croydon tram which derailed on its approach to Sandilands. Everyone at the club’s thoughts remain with their families, fellow supporters and those impacted by the tragedy.

Palace will return to action following the international break with an away fixture at Wolves on Saturday, 22nd November.

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CPFC Women √ ipswich town (a)

wolves Premier League (a)

CPFC Women √ leicester city (a)

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Palace make it nine games unbeaten after a 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest at Selhurst Park.

Manager

oliver glasner Welcome back, once again, to Selhurst Park, and welcome to Fabian Hürzeler and his Brighton staff and players for this afternoon’s game.

I

’m writing these notes ahead of Thursday night’s UEFA Conference League fixture with AZ Alkmaar. Today’s game concludes a busy week for us before the November international window and we’re hoping to sign off in the best way possible. It’s a great opportunity to win back-to-back Premier League games. As I said before the Brentford game, this league is very close, and I think it will be like this as we head towards the Christmas period.

Aside from points, we all know how much this game means to you in terms of pride as well. Last season we managed to win both games against Brighton and they came at really important moments in our season. Just before Christmas we went to the Amex Stadium, where they were unbeaten at home and at that stage we needed to pick up some points. But we played a great first-half and managed to get the win, defending well in the second-half.

The last time we played against each other at Selhurst, we had just reached the FA Cup semi-finals and

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It’s a great opportunity to win back-to-back Premier League games. As I said before the Brentford game, this league is very close, and I think it will be like this as we head towards the Christmas period

Manager

we know this rivalry makes it the most important game for our fans.

Everyone who joins the club is briefed about what makes it special, just like I was when I first joined. I often talk about the connection being important, and that is why if this game is important for you – it’s automatically important for us

had played a lot of football. But the energy and the support from the stands helped the players get over the line, even after two red cards. It was the first time we had won both games against them in a season for a long time and that made it a special day. Those wins gave us real spirit and belief that we then used for the rest of the season.

It was the first time we had won both games against them in a season for a long time and that made it a special day.

Those wins gave us real spirit and belief that we then used for the rest of the season

Of course, we know this rivalry makes it the most important game for our fans. Everyone who joins the club is briefed about what makes it special, just like I was when I first joined. I often talk about the connection between us, and that is why if this game is important for you – it’s automatically important for us.

We have respect for the way that Brighton are playing, they’ve obviously started the season well.

But I can promise this team will give everything to get a win today. As ever, you’re support will play a big part and I look forward to seeing each of you this afternoon

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Captain

marc Guéhi Welcome back to Selhurst Park for our third home game in eight days – and a fixture that we all look forward to every season: Crystal Palace v Brighton.

T

hese notes will go to print ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Conference League game, but I know you’ll have once again provided a magnificent setting for another big night at Selhurst Park.

We know the schedule is not only demanding for us as players, but also for our supporters as well. So let me take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you for your backing over a very busy month, as we now head to the next international window after today’s game.

It’ll be the last international break before the end of 2025, and hopefully everyone comes back healthy and ready to go with some big games coming up at the end of this month. As ever, congratulations to every player who represents his country over the next fortnight.

Turning attention to today’s game, we know what this fixture means to everyone associated with the club – and hopefully that will be reflected in our performance. When you’re out on the pitch, they do feel different to other games. You know there’s a lot riding on it. Every game is important, but knowing what it

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we know the schedule is not only demanding for us as players, but also for our supporters as well.

So let me take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you for your backing over a very busy month

Captain

Last season we won both meetings and used that as a springboard for the rest of the campaign. That’s what a positive result in this fixture can do.

As ever, we know how much it means to you and will do everything to secure a win

means to our supporters naturally means it has that extra edge.

But the key to these games is to not let your approach change. As with any game, we’ll play to win and be positive in the way we play.

We’ve got a few of the new lads who haven’t experienced this fixture before, but they are made aware from those of us that have been here longer about why it means so much.

The manager knows as well, so we’ll be well prepared to deal with the occasion.

the key to these games is to not let your approach change. As with any game, we’ll play to win and be positive in the way we play. We’ve got a few of the new lads who haven’t experienced this fixture before, but they are made aware from those of us that have been here longer about why it means so much Once again, we’ll need your support throughout the afternoon.

Brighton are a well-drilled side, and have enjoyed a good start to the league season. But our last two

domestic games have given us a great platform to attack this game.

We’ve kept clean sheets and taken our chances when they’ve arrived.

Last season we won both meetings and used that as a springboard for the rest of the campaign. That’s what a positive result in this fixture can do. As ever, we know how much it means to you and will do everything to secure a win – enjoy the game

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chairman

steve parish Welcome to the supporters, players, staff and directors of Brighton & Hove Albion to Selhurst Park for today’s match.

Welcome as always to each and every Crystal Palace supporter here to get behind Oliver’s team for this massive game.

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oday’s match falls in Remembrance Weekend.

Ahead of kick-off, we will come together to honour the courageous sacrifice made by those who have died in the line of duty. Nine players who are known to have played for the club tragically lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars; you can find out more about them on page 64 of this programme. To them, and all who served, we remain forever thankful.

In addition, today’s match takes place on the ninth anniversary of the tragic events which saw seven people lose their lives while travelling on a Croydon tram – among them regular attendees at Selhurst Park. Our thoughts remain with their families and fellow supporters.

I am writing these notes ahead of Thursday evening’s UEFA Conference League fixture here.

Three games in nine days is always challenging, particularly when that run includes the visit of a London rival in Brentford, and an opponent with a strong record in Europe in AZ Alkmaar. But, as I wrote earlier

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while I hope that we are entering today’s game following backto-back victories, I know for sure that we will be doing so after two outstanding shows of support at Selhurst Park

Chairman

this week, while I hope that we are entering today’s game following back-to-back victories, I know for sure that we will be doing so after two outstanding shows of support at Selhurst Park.

That was further echoed after tickets for our fourth Conference League game, away to Strasbourg, sold out within minutes of going on sale earlier this week – a testament to the strength of your support during this special season for the club. I am sure those attending on the day will create quite the South London atmosphere in France – I look forward to seeing it.

It is not just our senior side who are playing against European opponents currently, with Darren Powell’s Under-21s side hosting Academy teams from Juventus and Nordsjælland at the VBS Community Stadium in Sutton later this month, following a narrow opening defeat to Valencia. With Borussia Mönchengladbach also due to visit in the New Year, don’t miss this exciting opportunity to head down to Sutton and lend the Young Eagles your support – tickets are available via the club website.

Finally, it has been fantastic to see the final stages of Academy development works nearing completion. This includes the opening of a world-class performance and rehabilitation centre, which our first-team players recently made use of for the first time after our win in Liverpool. When I look back over the course of the project, it has been incredible to see the progress made with these facilities, and this latest

it has been incredible to see the progress made with these facilities, and this latest development will be of great benefit to all our players during a busy fixture schedule ahead development will be of great benefit to all our players during a busy fixture schedule ahead.

Turning our attentions back to today, however – a special matchday in the club’s calendar – I am sure you will give everything you have to ensure Oliver and his players head into the international window after another memorable day here at Selhurst Park.

Up the Palace

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a special matchday in the club’s calendar – I am sure you will give everything you have to ensure Oliver and his players head into the international window after another memorable day here at Selhurst Park

MARC

Captain Marc Guéhi will once again lead Palace out against Brighton this afternoon. A man at the top of his game, ahead of one of the biggest fixtures of the season, he discusses advice for a career in professional football, the art of defending, and more with Jack Lacey-Hatton.

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Marc Guéhi

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ootball in 2025 is relentless.

There are more games than ever before, more interest from all angles, the neverending swirl of social media reacting to every moment.

There is also an unwavering desire from the media, fans and everyone else to be talking about what comes next; the next game, the next month of fixtures, the next season.

For players it must feel like a rollercoaster with the need for an unflinching focus and with you only ever being as good as your last 45 minutes, never mind your last game.

But that is perhaps why one quote from our sit down with Marc Guéhi stands out above all others.

“Enjoy the process.”

That was the Palace captain’s answer when asked for one piece of advice to help navigate the world of top-level football.

“That’s the most important rule I’ve tried to approach football with,” Guéhi explains. “It’s made a big difference.

“I was told it early on and now it’s something that I tell myself. In football, even at the top you can’t always win all the time. Obviously, you’re always trying to win, but you can’t always plan.

“When I was younger, I don’t think anyone foresaw where I would get to.

No-one said to me ‘if you do this, you can play for England’ or anything. So you can’t look too far ahead.

“I also think that enjoying the process means that when you do have success, like we did last season, it’s even more meaningful.

“It’s something I’m conscious of.

I have reminded myself to do that over

MARC

That’s the most important rule I’ve tried to approach football with, It’s made a big difference.

I was told it early on and now it’s something that I tell myself. In football, even at the top you can’t always win all the time. Obviously, you’re always trying to win, but you can’t always plan

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the last few months, particularly. The games are coming so quickly at the moment, so it’s important to enjoy it.”

It makes sense when you consider what a level-headed individual the 25-year-old is. It explains how, even when the spotlight is beaming down on him, he remains cool, calm and collected.

So far this season Guéhi has looked at the peak of his powers, for both club and country.

Few of his Palace teammates expressed surprise after his goal during the win over Aston Villa in August, when the defender joined in a flowing attack, before stepping into the opposition penalty area and promptly bending a shot right in the top corner. It’s one of those goals that gets better with each watch – simply magnificent.

Chris richards

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You can see the pitch and help your team 16

Marc Guéhi He also got his first senior England goal just over a week after that Villa win. A commanding presence in both penalty areas, Guéhi even attempted an overhead kick from just outside the box a few weeks ago against Bournemouth which nearly led to a goal.

But defending remains the bedrock of his game. So – and this is where young aspiring centre-backs need to pay attention – what is the one piece of sage advice he would give to all defenders?

“That’s a tough one,” Guéhi says as he pauses for thought. “If we’re talking about something anyone would need [to play the position] I’d say communication.

“Lots of people talk on the pitch.

“But to be a good communicator, you need to be able to see and read the game earlier than others, that’s a big part of it.

“Naturally you’re able to influence the game and different positions players are picking up. I think it’s one part of the game that a lot of people don’t pick up on, but it’s important.

“It’s not something physical; it’s not something you can analyse. But it’s definitely what every defender needs. You can see the pitch and help your team.

“Sometimes, the right communication can lead to a counterattack, or an important moment in a game.

“Some players have it. But many don’t and you realise the importance of it more and more as your career progresses. Good communication can help you and help the team, in any situation.”

to be a good communicator, you need to be able to see and read the game earlier than others, that’s a big part of it. Naturally you’re able to influence the game and different positions players are picking up. I think it’s one part of the game that a lot of people don’t pick up on, but it’s important

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Under Oliver Glasner, flexibility has been key to Palace’s success.

The way the team can keep themselves in the game, regardless of the opposition, has been a notable feature of the last 12 months.

As part of that, Guéhi has had to push his game on to new levels. The captain forms a strong three-man backline with Chris Richards and Maxence Lacroix, a unit that was vital to winning the FA Cup – and conceding just one goal along the way. In doing so he covers plenty of ground.

“Positionally, I feel like I’m coming up against a lot of wingers and wide forwards these days,” adds Guéhi. “But I enjoy the challenge of a one-on-one battle out wide.”

Even as part of a successful defence, the skipper remains his own fiercest critic. It’s just part of his DNA.

Marc Guéhi “The pressure on me, only comes from myself,” he admits. “But it frustrates me when others put pressure on me, I almost feel like that is just adding fuel to the fire.

“I probably put more pressure on myself than anyone could imagine.

“But this season’s been good so far. It’s a challenge to play in Europe with more games and make sure your recovery is right for each game.

“Obviously, physically you feel it for sure. But I think we’ve all had to deal with the challenges of mentally staying fresh between games.

“That can be the most demanding part of playing every few days. But the boys have approached it well, hopefully it continues.”

Considering the skippers’ approach of enjoying the moment – it still feels slightly unbefitting to talk about the future.

But as well as the small matter of a historic European campaign with Palace, there is also next summer… and the biggest World Cup finals to date coming into view.

When you love the game, your life is bookmarked by World Cups.

Just once every four years, so much will have changed in the interim.

For example, at the last tournament in 2022, Guéhi had only just received his first senior England call-up a few months earlier.

He wasn’t part of that squad, yet now looks certain to be a key man in Thomas Tuchel’s defence next summer, health permitting.

It could be a landmark moment in his career, alongside Euro 2024 and the FA Cup triumph.

“The [England] teams in a good space,” he said. “It’s exciting.

physically you feel it for sure. But I think we’ve all had to deal with the challenges of mentally staying fresh between games.

That can be the most demanding part of playing every few days. But the boys have approached it well, hopefully it continues

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We probably don’t have too much expectation on us compared with previous teams, but there’s a belief within the team we can do well.

“Everyone around that group is looking forward to it. “I just pray everyone is healthy, so we can have a good go.”

Everyone has a first World Cup memory, so what was his?

“2006 in Germany, that was my first World Cup. I remember I was actually back in Ivory Coast at the time.

“It was the first ever tournament the team had qualified for. I just remember how big it was there at the time, what a moment it was for the country.

“We had a really great team as well, all the big hitters, with Didier Drogba leading as the main man.

I just pray everyone is healthy, so we can have a good go 19

There’s nothing else like it, so it’s exciting times 20

Marc Guéhi “I remember when we scored against the Netherlands [in the second group game, through Bakari Koné]. I mean I can’t remember the exact goal, what it looked like, but I remember how many people celebrated when it went in.

“That’s what you get with the World Cup, that excitement from every other country around the world.

There’s nothing else like it, so it’s exciting times.”

Guéhi said in an interview earlier this year that one ambition is to play until he is 40, of course if health and fitness allow.

With rumours still swirling that his England teammate Harry Kane is eyeing up a kicking role in the NFL post-football, your correspondent wondered if the Palace captain has another sport up his particular sleeve.

“It’s just football for me to be honest,” he says with a smile. “I’m not sure I want to play any other sports.

“Once football’s done, I think I’ll just want to be out and enjoying life.

“I would have to do athletics as a kid, long jump, triple jump, distance running. I’d say I was ok at the 200m, that was maybe my preferred event and the 800m.

“Long distance that isn’t too long and a sprint that allows you to get up to speed, I could do that – something in the middle!”

With athleticism a key part of his game today, you could imagine Guéhi producing an impressive power lap on the track.

But instead of looking too far ahead, let’s preach the captain’s philosophy by staying in the moment.

You always enjoy playing against them, You know there’s a bit more riding on it, that it means a lot more to the fans, so it means a lot to us.

That’s always in the back of your mind in the build-up to the game. But we’ll be ready and give everything we have

Today’s match with Brighton and Hove Albion will be Guéhi’s ninth for Palace. His record to date reads two wins, two defeats and four draws – perhaps to be expected with games against our old rivals often tense affairs.

“You always enjoy playing against them,” he says. “You know there’s a bit more riding on it, that it means a lot more to the fans, so it means a lot to us.

“That’s always in the back of your mind in the build-up to the game.

But we’ll be ready and give everything we have.”

On Saturday night, when hopefully we’re celebrating three points, maybe we should all ‘be like Marc,’ and just enjoy the process.

Nothing lasts forever, and certainly not in football. Enjoy the moment while it’s here

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captain

SHARE GOOD TIMES WITH

GREAT PILSNER GRAB A BEER THAT’S CRISP, BRIGHT AND REFRESHING 22

Staff selection

staff selection

with Marc Guéhi

Everybody knows a footballer’s best position on the pitch – but what if they took on an alternative role off it? Here, skipper Marc Guéhi picks his ideal Palace backroom team – from his teammates…

manager

Analyst

Player Care Manager

Daichi [Kamada], everyone picking me for this one is miles off!

Tough one… I’m going with Adam Wharton.

That’s a hard one. I’ll go JP!

Fitness coach

Club chef

Social Media Manager

Dani Muñoz – an easy one!

Chris Richards – I’ll back him in the kitchen.

Eddie Nketiah

Commentator

scout

designer

Hughesy. He’ll hate me for picking him for that one!

Clyney – purely because he likes to travel a lot!

Maxence Lacroix. His game day posts are always on point.

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brighton & hove albion

brighton &

hove albion After three managers in the last three calendar years, Brighton appear to found stability in the hotseat with Fabian Hürzeler, who is now looking to improve on last season’s eight-place finish in the Premier League.

10th

Points

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Welbeck reborn -

Top Scorer

Albion are an energetic, tactically flexible team, aided by the mobile Carlos Baleba, talented winger Yakuba Minteh and an Indian summer in the career of Danny Welbeck.

Welbeck, now 34, is in the form of his life, with talk of an England recall ahead of next summer’s World Cup finals quickly gathering pace.

The former Manchester United forward comes into today’s game lying joint-second in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot, one of a group of four players on six goals, which also includes Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Many predicted the attack could struggle after the departure of Pedro, who left in the summer, after they scored the joint-fifth highest in the Premier League last term. But Welbeck has more than filled the void, not only with his goals, but his movement and tactical awareness.

The Palace defence will have to keep the in-form man quiet this afternoon, if they want to make it three wins on the bounce against our old rivals.

Most Assists

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Danny Welbeck

Yankuba Minteh

6

3

away

home

The Seagulls enjoyed an inconsistent start to 2025/26, winning just one of their first five Premier League games.

Since then they have lost just once in the Premier League, that defeat coming at Old Trafford, but have seen off European-chasing Chelsea and Newcastle United in impressive fashion.

The win at the former will have given fans particular satisfaction considering the high number of players and staff to have swapped the south coast for West London in recent times, with the Brazilian forward João Pedro the latest in a long line to do so.

It’s positive signs for Albion, in their quest to get back into Europe after missing out last term.

A continental campaign under former boss Roberto De Zerbi in 2023/24 provided the club with their first taste of European football, where they reached the round of 16 in the UEFA Europa League.

Trips to Marseille, Athens and Rome will live long in the memory of Albion’s support, but naturally they will be angling for a swift return.

Position

third

season so far -

this season

brighton & hove albion

3-0 brighton √ leeds Saturday, 1st November / Amex Stadium

"It was good performance from the start, especially the first 20 minutes. We lost a bit of control after that, but in the second half we got it back. We kept a clean sheet which was important, scored some good goals and created a lot of chances. I'm happy.”

Fabian Hürzeler

18 Substitutes

welbeck

9

S. Tzimas

14

T. Watson

19

C. Kostoulas

21

O. Boscagli

25 gÓmez

10

11

rutter

minteh

26

17

ayari

baleba

23

J. Steele

29

M. De Cuyper

24

5

6

27

42

D. Coppola

Kadioglu

dunk

van Hecke

Wieffer

57

J. Knight

58

N. Oriola

goal cards

1 Verbruggen subs

WHAT HAPPENED In-form Danny Welbeck scored for a third successive league game as Brighton climbed into the top half of the table with a comfortable win over newly promoted Leeds United.

Welbeck fired in the opener for the hosts in the 11th minute, volleying home from close range to finish off a flowing team move after good work from Yankuba Minteh and Mats Wieffer.

A Diego Gómez double ended the contest not long after the hour mark, marking his return to the team in style.

It was a fourth win in 10 games for Albion, who also kept their first clean sheet of the campaign.

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brighton & hove albion

a SEASON TO REMEMBER In this issue, we look at how Brighton battled through the Championship to reach the promised land and secure automatic promotion to the Premier League…

Brighton 2016/17 Brighton’s 2016/17 campaign was special one on the south coast, marking their return to the top-flight after a 34-year absence.

The previous season had ended devastatingly, with the Seagulls missing out on the top two through goal difference, after a 1-1 draw with promotion rivals Middlesbrough on the final day. The play-offs beckoned, but Albion looked drained and lost 3-1 on aggregate to Sheffield Wednesday in the semi-finals.

For manager Chris Hughton and his players, an immediate reaction was needed. They responded in the most emphatic way possible, showing grit and determination to achieve their dream.

In the summer of 2016, the club pivotally decided to bring former Palace forward Glenn Murray back to Sussex. The target man would spearhead the promotion effort.

Another high-profile addition arrived in defence as centre-back Shane Duffy joined from Blackburn Rovers.

Lacking rhythm and sharpness, their start to the season was inconsistent, Albion registering two wins, two draws and two losses in the opening six Championship games.

After tasting defeat against Brentford on 10th September, Brighton didn’t lose again in the second tier until mid-January against Preston North End – a stretch which saw them, Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town, pull clear of the rest of the chasing pack.

April 2017 proved to be a defining time for Hughton’s men, with Albion victorious in their first five games of that month. They secured promotion to the Premier League in the last match of

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this run, following a 2-1 triumph over Wigan Athletic at the Amex Stadium with goals from Murray and Solly March as Huddersfield Town dropped points against Derby County.

After failing to win any of their final three Championship games, Newcastle eventually pipped Brighton to the title by one point. But the main job was already done.

Despite missing out on first place, the Seagulls had still accomplished something magnificent.

brighton & hove albion

There were many outstanding performers along the way, including winger Anthony Knockaert, who netted 15 goals and provided nine assists, enough to be named the EFL Championship’s Player of the Season.

Another indispensable attacker was the clinical Murray, who bagged 23 goals, becoming the division’s second-highest scorer for the season, behind Leeds United’s Chris Wood with 27.

Brighton also excelled at the back, conceding just 40 goals in 46 Championship games, which was the joint-best defensive record alongside league winners Newcastle. Much of this was owed to David Stockdale’s reliability, as the goalkeeper kept 20 clean sheets over his 45 appearances.

The efficiency of this eyecatching team meant that Brighton posted a formidable home record, winning 17 of their 23 Championship fixtures at the Amex.

For the fans, this promotion is deeply cherished, as exactly 20 years earlier they narrowly avoided relegation from the Football League with a 1-1 draw against Hereford on the final day of the 1996/17 season.

Due to off-the-pitch difficulties, the club was forced to sell its former home, the Goldstone Ground, and spent two campaigns at Gillingham’s Priestfield Stadium.

Through this reflective perspective, this two-decade journey, which culminated in Premier League promotion, felt ceremonial.

It signalled a remarkable inner

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strength of the supporters, as the club progressed to survive difficult times.

The success of the 2016/17 campaign served as a platform for Brighton to evolve into a stable Premier League outfit, with the club now in its ninth successive season of top-flight football.

Under owner Tony Bloom’s leadership, the Seagulls have continued to thrive despite regularly changing managers and have even enjoyed European football for the first time in club history. But none of this would have possible without the efforts from the class of 2016/17.

brighton & hove albion

01

gk Bart

Verbruggen age

joined

23 2023

GK tom

from

38

M©Gill age

joined

25 academy

def lewis

dunk age

05 joined

33 academy

gk jason

steele age

23

joined

35 2018

def adam

from

04

webster age

joined

30 2019

Olivier

Boscagli age

joined

27 2025 30

Jan Paul

from

06

van Hecke age

from

21

def

def

joined

25 2020

from

After a challenging start to life in England, van Hecke has emerged as a wonderfully improved defender at Brighton.

In the last three seasons, the 25-year-old has featured in 72 of the Seagulls’ 86 Premier League fixtures, including starts in all ten opening games of the current campaign. Through his technical and physical excellence, the Dutch International embodies the modern-day centre-back and was named Brighton’s Players’ Player of the Season for his eyecatching 2024/25 campaign.

brighton & hove albion

def Ferdi

24

Kadioglu age

joined

26 2024

mid Carlos

Baleba age

joined

17

21 2023

def Joel

from

34

Veltman age

Predicted to have a massive future, Baleba is brimming with world-class ability and potential. Signed in 2023, the combative midfielder quickly adapted to the intensity of the Premier League during his first season with Brighton, providing admirable cover for Moises Caicedo following his departure to Chelsea. At his best, the 21-year-old can be unplayable, possessing a devastating blend of energy, athleticism, and skill. If Baleba can consistently deliver at this level, then he’s destined for the very top.

from

joined

33 2020

from

71

def Freddie

Simmonds age

17

joined

academy 31

def Maxim

29

De Cuyper age

joined

24 2025

def Diego

from

42

Coppola age

joined

21 2025

mid solly

from

07

march age

31

joined

2011

from

brighton & hove albion

mid Brajan

Gruda age

08

joined

21 2024

mid Diego

25

GÓmez age

joined

22 2025

from

14

mid Tommy

Watson

13

mid jack

Hinshelwood joined

age

20 academy

mid James

20

Milner

from

Brighton’s shrewd recruitment has uncovered another gem with the acquisition of Gómez from the MLS. The dynamic midfielder has excelled this season and bagged a quickfire double in the Seagulls’ previous Premier League fixture, a 3-0 win against Leeds United.

Gómez also made the headlines in September, notching four goals in Brighton’s 6-0 Carabao Cup thrashing of Barnsley. The Paraguayan is a well-rounded youngster with scoring touch and looks set to play a huge role for Fabian Hurzeler.

age

joined

19 2025

mid Kaoru

from

22

Mitoma age

joined

28 2021 32

from

age

joined

39 2023

from

21

def Olivier

Boscagli age

joined

27 2025

from

brighton & hove albion

mid Yasin

Ayari age

26

joined

22 2023

mid Harry

from

53

Howell age

17

joined

academy

fwd Georginio

Rutter age

joined

10

23 2024

from

mid Mats

27

Wieffer age

joined

25 2024

fwd Stefanos

from

09

Tzimas age

joined

19 2025

fwd Yankuba

Minteh age

joined

21 2024 33

from

11 from

18

fwd Danny

Welbeck age

joined

34 2020

from

Welbeck is still delivering at the highest level with his chilling composure and intelligence. The forward is in sensational form, netting six goals in ten Premier League appearances, the most of any Englishman in this season’s top-flight to assemble a late push for the Three Lions’ 2026 World Cup squad. The timeless striker has scored in his last three successive Premier League games, including the opener in Brighton’s resounding victory over Leeds.

brighton & hove albion

TALKING TACTICS

@CPFC_Tampa

Brighton & Hove Albion arrive to Selhurst Park in the first ever meeting where both these rivals are sitting in the top half of the English top-flight.

This will be a clash of styles: patient and organised, versus aggressive pressing and attacking play.

TACTICAL APPROACH Brighton usually deploy a 4-2-3-1, looking to play at a frenetic pace.

In fact, Albion’s matches have combined for the second most goals in the Premier League this season, 32 (17 for, 15 conceded).

OUT OF POSSESSION Brighton are known for intense, aggressive pressing. When out of possession, they look to quickly disrupt opponents and exploit mistakes. Their passes per defensive action (PPDA), measuring defensive intensity, ranks third in the Premier League, while they rank second in number of pressed sequences. On average, these sequences occur further up the pitch than any other club. Brighton’s press is effective, as they force the most high turnovers, and rank second for shots resulting from high turnovers. Nearly one-fifth (16%) of their total shots come from a high turnover.

While their 15 goals allowed ranks just 13th in league, their expected goals allowed (xGA) of 12.3 ranks seventh – showing a bit of “misfortune” with conceding. In terms of shots, Brighton concede low quantity, but high quality noted by allowing the fifth-fewest shots in the league, but the fourth highest NPxG/shot.

BALANCE ON THE WINGS 30% of Brighton’s attacks start through the middle, ranking third

34

in the Premier League. 38% are initiated from the right (fifth most).

However, Brighton rank dead last in attacks initiated from the left.

This imbalance is primarily down to right winger Yankuba Minteh. The Gambian ranks in the top five in the Premier League for progressive carries (third), progressive passes received (fourth), carries into the penalty area (joint-second), and touches in the penalty area (joint-second). He leads Brighton in both xG and xAG (expected assisted goals).

projected starting xi

brighton & hove albion

25

24

gÓmez

kadioglu

5 1

dunk

verbruggen

26 ayari

6

18 welbeck

17

van hecke

baleba

27

11

wieffer

Brighton rank fifth in goals scored and seventh for xG. Their expected goals on target (xGOT), is considerably higher than their xG, showing that they increase their chances of scoring with good shot placement.

As with recent seasons, Brighton build from the back. Their goal kick launch rate is only 22% − lowest in the league. However, patient builds are becoming less common. Brighton have the sixth-fastest direct speed and are midtable for 10+ pass sequences (12th), passes per sequence (10th), and build ups (eighth).

Instead, they look to drive the ball through defences. Brighton rank sixth for progressive carries, third for carries into the penalty area, and complete the third most take-ons at the second-highest success rate.

However, they are turnoverprone, and rank bottom three for both miscontrols and dispossessions.

10 rutter

minteh

PLAYER TO WATCH: DANNY WELBECK The evergreen striker continues to impress. He is joint-second in the Golden Boot chart with six Premier League goals and has scored with incredible efficiency.

His goals have come from just 13 shots and his 4th-ranked NPxG/shot of 0.26 shows the quality of each chance.

While he is outperforming his xG metrics, he still ranks seventh in both xG & NPxG, showing his underlying attacking threat.

Appearances

10 (3)

goals

6

xg

4.16

xa

0.48

shots on target inside the box

3

touches in the opposition box

38

penalties (Scored)

1

Free Kicks (scored)

1 (1)

35

This season we’re going up from 128 to

Premier League matches

36

brighton & hove albion

albion flashback 2002/03

STREETS WON’T FORGET: Bobby Zamora -

HOME KIT - our verdict: A central badge seems to be quite a ‘noughties thing’ now. The sponsor doesn't sit right, but it does at least blend in with the blue and white.

away kit - our verdict: A stylish all-black change kit can be a thing of beauty. Sadly, this doesn’t fall into that category. The Seagull outline is… strange, whilst we’re also not sure what is going on with the sleeves. Not exactly a classic.

37

Originally joining Brighton on a three-month loan deal back in 2000 from Bristol City, Zamora was an instant hit on the south coast.

He scored six goals in just six appearances, before making a permanent move to Albion the following summer.

Over the next three seasons his lethal goalscoring record would propel him to hero status with the fans and also help the forward into the England Under-21 squad.

Hitting 70 goals in just 119 appearances, as Albion won backto-back promotions to reach the second tier.

Despite scoring 14 goals in 35 league matches in the Championship – then Division One – in 2002/03, Zamora’s efforts were not enough to prevent relegation.

He signed for Tottenham that summer, with his silky touch and top-class finishing ability seeing him go on to forge a good Premier League career. He returned to Albion for one final season in 2015/16, before retiring from playing.

brighton & hove albion

BOTH SIDES of THE FENCE MATTHEW UPSON In a distinguished playing career, Matthew Upson appeared for various Premier League and Championship clubs, while also winning 21 England caps.

The defender was heralded for his consistency and calmness, while also possessing intelligent positional awareness and a formidable presence at the back.

In 1996, Upson signed professionally with Luton Town and was swiftly noticed by Arsene Wenger, joining Arsenal a year later.

Unfortunately for the then-18year-old, his minutes with the Gunners were limited due to injuries and fierce competition from the likes of Tony Adams, Martin Keown and Steve Bould.

When Upson returned to fitness, he needed minutes, and after initially joining Nottingham Forest, he moved to Crystal Palace on loan. The Englishman featured seven times for the Eagles as the club dramatically avoided relegation to the third-tier on the final day of the season.

Still, with some transformative experience under his belt, Upson returned to North London feeling more confident and made 14 appearances across the 2001/02 season, earning a Premier League medal as Arsenal won the title. However, a broken leg towards the end of that campaign was another stumbling block.

Overall, after six seasons with Arsenal, he joined Birmingham City in 2003. Upson was at the peak of his powers at the Blues and his next club, West Ham United. Despite Birmingham’s relegation to the Championship in 2006, Upson was undeniably a Premier League player, and between the 2007/08 and 2010/11 seasons, he featured in 129 of the Irons’ 152 league fixtures.

Upon leaving the Hammers in 2011 following their relegation, the centre-back enjoyed a short spell at Stoke City, before joining Championship outfit Brighton on loan in January 2013.

At the end of that season, he signed for the Seagulls permanently and enjoyed an incredible 2013/14 campaign.

He recorded 47 appearances in all competitions, helping Brighton finish sixth in the Championship standings and reach the play-off semi-finals, and was voted the club’s Player of the Season.

Following spells at Leicester City and MK Dons, Upson retired in 2016.

38

1996

Signs professionally with Luton Town and makes debut

1997/98

Joins Arsenal and was part of the squad that won the title

2001

Signs for Crystal Palace on loan, playing seven games for the side which avoided secondtier relegation

2001/02

Returns to Arsenal and makes 14 top-flight appearances as the Gunners win the title

2003

Leaves Arsenal after six years to join Birmingham City

2007

Following Birmingham’s relegation in 2006, he signs for top-flight outfit West Ham United in January

2009

Appointed West Ham captain

2010

Represents England at the World Cup

2011

After West Ham’s relegation he joins Stoke City

2013

Signs for Brighton in January on an initial loan deal

2013/14

Helps the Seagulls to sixth in the Championship and the play-off semi-finals to be named the club’s Player of the Season

2015

Signs for Milton Keynes Dons on a oneyear deal

2016

Announces his retirement

brighton & hove albion

WHen we last met

2-1 crystal palace √ brighton 5th April 2025 / Selhurst Park

1 henderson

8

5

6

lerma

LACROIX

guÉhi

12

18

20

3

MUñOZ

kamada

wharton

mitchell

10

7 SARR

EZE

14 MATETA

18 welbeck

22

17

33

mitoma

minteh

o'riley

25

20

gÓmez

baleba

30

5

29

41

estupiÑÁn

dunk

van hecke

hinshelwood

1 verbruggen

Palace’s first game back at Selhurst Park after booking a Wembley FA Cup semi-final trip would prove one of the most memorable matches in the historic 2024/25 season.

Chasing a first ever top-flight double over Brighton, Palace would finish with nine men but cling on for all three points, on an extraordinary afternoon.

The Eagles took the lead in the third minute when striker Jean-Philippe Mateta was played in by Ebere Eze and curled the ball excellently into the top corner.

But Albion struck back before half-time when Winger Yankuba Minteh curled an excellent cross into the box and Danny Welbeck turned it in from close range.

the scorers mateta 3'

In a see-saw contest, Daniel Muñoz scored what proved to be the winner when Eze played him in to drill a low shot into the far corner.

Eddie Nketiah and skipper Marc Guéhi would both see red after two yellow cards, while the visitors also finished with ten after defender Jan Paul van Hecke brought down Daichi Kamada.

39

welbeck 31'

muÑoz 55'

MATCH STATS 37%

Possession

63%

3

total shots

5

2

shots on target

4

2

corners

4

12

fouls

13

west ham united

RedBull_UK3383_ZERO_Crystal Palace Match Day Programme_148x105mm_AW.indd 1

40

08/01/2025 09:51

brighton & hove albion

HEAD TO HEAD

Ismaïla

sarr age

pos

27 fwd

Yankuba

25/26

nat

14

Goals

17

18.54

Expected Goals

16.46

4

Clean Sheets

1

Minteh age

21

pos

fwd

nat

PL Apps

8

91

Total Shots

97

PL Apps

10

Goals

3

525

Duels Won

520

Goals

1

Assists

1

240

Assists

3

Minutes played

704

Minutes played

860

Goal involvements

4

Goal involvements

4

xG

3.59

xG

2.01

Passes

146

Passes

203

336

Clearances

06

Brighton are winless in six PL away games vs Crystal Palace (D5 L1)

2017

The year the last time these two sides played out a goalless draw

03

Palace are chasing a third straight victory over Brighton - that last occurred in 2002

Delivered by:

41

west ham united

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42

KEVIN PHILLIPS

43

KEVIN PHILLIPS

KEVIN PHILLIPS As Crystal Palace take part in a club-record 13th top-flight season, we hear from the man who kicked it all off – Super Kevin Phillips.

The former England and Palace striker shares his thoughts on the win over Brentford and what it means to play in this fixture…

winning ugly I thought Palace’s win against Brentford was scrappy, but a really important moment in the season. Going into that game Brentford had scored in every game they had played – bar one, and that was against Manchester City. For the lads to keep a clean sheet and see out the game comfortably was impressive. I think they’ll take a lot of confidence from that win.

It might have been last up on Match of the Day, but sometimes as a player you enjoy those hard-fought scrappy wins, even more than when you put in a complete performance.

It’s natural for supporters to want excitement as well, but to win when you’re not playing at your best in the Premier League is big. It shows the team are in a good place, despite having to play so much football over the last few weeks.

44

sometimes as a player you enjoy those hard-fought scrappy wins, even more than when you put in a more complete performance.

It’s natural for supporters to want excitement as well, but to win when you’re not playing at your best in the Premier League is big

KEVIN PHILLIPS

What this fixture means When I first arrived at Palace I didn’t know too much about the rivalry.

But you learn quickly. The first time I was involved in the fixture, I was surprised by how fierce it was – not just between the supporters – but on the pitch as well. It’s natural that as a player you’ll look forward to those days even more than your average game.

Obviously, this fixture always makes me think of 2013 and the playoff semi-final. We’d had a real rude awakening when we went to Brighton in the league that season. They gave us a good hiding and we came away licking our wounds, it was tough for the next few days. Then as the season progressed it felt inevitable, we would meet again in the play-offs.

We knew it would be a tough place to go. But on the night, as you’ll all remember, it all came together.

Wilf [Zaha] had one of those days where he was unplayable – and we managed to get through it. Any win against your rivals is magnificent, but that one was a really special evening.

I played in some big rivalries and derbies during my career as a professional. It’s always difficult to know what the best preparation was.

You know it matters, but you don’t want to hype it up too much and then feel different on matchday.

In quite a few of the ones I played in, form would go out of the window. It’s one of those football cliches that actually means something on days like today − you play the game and not the occasion.

But it can be difficult if you get too wrapped up in the atmosphere. If you’re the away team and you know you’ll enjoy a frosty reception, you have to think about how to channel that into a performance. If you’re at home, you’ll have the fans backing you, but also an extra reminder of just how much it means to them.

As I’ve said, form doesn’t have much bearing on these games and both sides have started the season

45

well. But Palace can take real confidence from the way they’ve played recently. Obviously, there’s a quick turnaround after Thursday’s European game against AZ Alkmaar.

But the players will get used to that rhythm the more they do it.

These are the days that can make you a hero, a club legend, for the rest of your days. Hopefully someone in red and blue steps forward and does just that this afternoon

.

25 YEARS CHAMPIONING GRASSROOTS Shout it from the terraces, it’s our anniversary! Since 2000, we’ve been transforming lives, giving every community great places to play sport. We're not finished yet, so here's to more game-changing investment.

Search Football Foundation to find out more

46

47

academy

palace academy The Crystal Palace Academy is a place where young talent thrives – so we’re sitting down, in every issue this season, to meet a star of the next generation. This week, we catch up with Chuks Okoli – the heartbeat of Javier Alonso’s Under-18s side...

chuks okoli my roots Football’s always been in my blood.

My older brother played, my Dad loves it – honestly, it’s just always been around me.

The first team I ever played for was Lewisham Youth. I must’ve been about five – I barely remember it, except that the kit was green and we were actually pretty good! I left around six, spent a bit of time with Lambeth Tigers, and by the time I was seven, I arrived at Palace.

My family’s been massive for me, my siblings especially – they were the ones taking me to training, helping me get to games. I owe a lot to them.

I actually started out as a striker.

I was a proper No. 9 – scoring goals every week, loving life. But around Under-12s, things changed, and I moved into midfield. I still think like a striker sometimes, though!

One of the biggest challenges young players face is managing social media. It’s easy to let it cloud your thinking. I’ve learned to separate real life from what’s online.

A big highlight for me has to be scoring from the halfway line in the U15 Floodlit Cup final against Stoke back in May 2023. That was a special moment.

We won 3–1. I’ll never forget it.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far? Don’t get too high with the highs, and don’t let the lows drag you down.

My Inspirations My biggest inspiration in football right now is Aurélien Tchouaméni at Real Madrid – him and Patrick Vieira. They both play the kind of role I’m in now: physical, composed, breaking up play and building attacks. Tchouaméni’s performance in the last El Clásico stood out for me.

Growing up, it was all about Ronaldo for me. I support Manchester United, so watching him in his prime was unreal.

my Teammates My best mate in the Academy? Easy – Sean Somade. Everyone knows that one. We’ve been close since he joined. As for hardest worker in

48

age

nationality

17 position

midfielder training, it’s between Jasper Judd and Raihaan Anderson.

Who’s better than they realise?

David Angibeaud, without a doubt. He’s tall, technical, two-footed, fast – he’s got everything.

The future manager in our group is Jasper again. The way he leads, organises, and talks – he just commands respect. As for funniest in the dressing room? Stuart Oduro – and the best part is, he’s not even trying to be funny!

If I were stranded on a desert island, I’d take Jasper, Josh [Muwana], and Euan [Danaher]. Jasper’s levelheaded and strong, Josh can turn his hand to anything, and Euan’s just an all-rounder – what can’t he do?

.

academy

fixtures&results

pos club

P

W

D

L

GD

Pts

1

ips

8

7

1

0

9

22

2

mun

8

7

0

1

8

21

3

ful

7

5

2

0

10

17

4

sou

8

5

2

1

5

17

5

che

8

5

0

3

6

15

Home Away Cup International Cup

u21s

u18s AUGUST

AUGUST Fri 22 Fri 29

Tottenham Hotspur West Bromwich Albion

W D

2-3 0-0

SEPTEMBER

Sat 16

Birmingham City

W

0-8

6

tot

8

5

0

3

5

15

Sat 23

Chelsea

L

2-4

7

sto

8

4

3

1

4

15

Tue 26

Manchester City

D

3-3

8

wol

7

4

2

1

4

14

Sat 30

Tottenham Hotspur

W

2-3

9

cry

7

4

1

2

1

13

SEPTEMBER

10

bha

8

3

3

2

7

12

whu

8

3

3

2

3

12

Tue 2

Bromley

D

3-3

Tue 16

AFC Wimbledon

L

3-1

Sat 13

Ipswich Town

W

8-0

11

3-2

Sat 20

Reading

W

2-0

12

lee

7

3

2

2

3

12

Sat 27

Aston Villa

L

3-1

13

ars

7

3

2

2

1

11

14

bir

8

3

2

3

-1

11

15

lei

8

3

2

3

-2

11

16

mci

7

3

1

3

4

10

Mon 22 Leeds United Sat 27

Manchester United

W L

4-1

OCTOBER

OCTOBER

Sat 4

Sheffield United

W

1-3

Mon 6

Birmingham City

W

3-1

Sat 18

Fulham

W

4-0

Tue 21

Stevenage

L

5-2

Sat 25

Brighton & Hove Albion

L

0-4

Mon 27 Newcastle United

L

0-2

NOVEMBER

Fri 31

W

0-2

Sat 1

Leicester City

Sat 8

West Ham United

Sat 22

Chelsea

Sat 29

Southampton

Aston Villa

NOVEMBER Tue 4

Valencia

Fri 7

Stoke City

L

0-1

W

4-2

DECEMBER

17

liv

8

3

1

4

1

10

18

nor

7

3

1

3

-1

10

19

avl

8

3

1

4

-3

10

20

eve

8

3

0

5

-4

9

21

bla

8

2

2

4

-3

8

22

nfo

8

2

1

5

-2

7

23

bur

8

2

0

6

-5

6

Wed 12 Juventus

24

wba

8

1

3

4

-8

6

Sat 6

Arsenal

25

mid

7

1

2

4

-2

5

Wed 26 Nordsjælland

Sat 13

Norwich City

26

new

8

1

2

5

-9

5

JANUARY

JANUARY

27

sun

7

1

1

5

-5

4

Sat 10 Fri 16

Chelsea Nottingham Forest

Sat 17

West Bromwich Albion

28

rea

7

0

3

4

-11

3

Sat 24

Chelsea

29

der

8

0

1

7

-15

1

Sat 31

Birmingham City

pos club

P

W

D

L

GD

Pts

1

cry

9

6

0

3

17

18

2

lei

8

5

0

3

5

15

3

avl

8

5

0

3

2

15

4

che

6

4

2

0

14

14

Wed 21 Borussia M’gladbach

FEBRUARY

Mon 26 Derby County

Sat 7

Ipswich Town

Fri 30

Sat 14

Tottenham Hotspur

Sat 21

Leicester City

Sat 28

West Ham United

Ipswich Town

FEBRUARY Mon 9

Middlesbrough

Mon 16 Fulham

MARCH Sat 7

Aston Villa

Mon 23 West Ham United

5

tot

8

4

2

2

10

14

Sat 14

Reading

6

ars

9

4

2

3

0

14

MARCH

Tue 17

Fulham

7

sou

7

4

1

2

6

13

Mon 2

Sat 21

Brighton & Hove Albion

8

bha

8

3

2

3

4

11

9

wba

8

3

2

3

3

11

10

rea

8

3

2

3

-3

11

11

whu

8

3

1

4

-2

10

12

ful

7

3

0

4

-3

9

13

bir

9

2

1

6

-22

7

14

nor

8

1

2

5

-7

5

15

ips

9

1

1

7

-24

4

Fri 6

Sunderland Blackburn Rovers

Mon 16 Wolves Sun 22

Liverpool

APRIL Sat 11

Southampton

Sat 18

Arsenal

Sat 25

Norwich City

APRIL

MAY

Mon 13 Arsenal

Sat 9

West Bromwich Albion

All statistics correct as of 17:00 Thursday, 6th November.

49

academy

palace academy Crystal Palace’s U18s are flying. Under the guidance of Head Coach Javier Alonso, the young Eagles have produced a thrilling brand of football – and their blistering start to the campaign has certainly caught the eye. Here are the key numbers from the season so far…

l

ast week’s 4–2 win over Leicester City was another showcase of the U18s’ attacking flair, with Mylo Bernard marking his debut with an early strike, Stuart Oduro doubling the lead, and second-half goals from Makai Bernard-Ferguson and David Angibeaud sealing yet another statement victory.

Heading into November, Palace sat top of the table on 18 points from nine games, as well as leading Premier League Cup Group D, level on points with Manchester City but ahead on goal difference.

Alonso’s young side have been relentless in attack, scoring 32 league goals, the most in the southern division, and 38 in all competitions so far this season.

Across both North and South, only City’s U18s have managed more (39).

At the heart of the goal rush is Benji Casey, whose form has been nothing short of electric. The striker tops the league’s charts with 11 goals, more than any player in either regional division, and has another three assists to his name, making him the most productive player at this level, with 14 goal involvements.

50

He’s also the only player to have scored two hat-tricks this season – both eye-catching trebles in emphatic wins over Tottenham and Ipswich.

Palace have turned their home ground into a fortress, taking maximum points at home so far while scoring 20 goals, more than any other side in the league. Their attacking average of 5.2 goals per match is narrowly behind Fulham’s 5.3, and they strike every 25 minutes on average, the fastest rate in the division. When the young Eagles get into their rhythm, goals are never far behind.

They’ve also delivered some of the season’s most emphatic victories – those unforgettable 8-0 wins over Birmingham and Ipswich, and a commanding 4-0 defeat of Fulham – meaning Palace boast the most “big wins” in the division, triumphs by more than three goals. Alonso’s side have the most wins (six), remain the

academy

only team yet to draw, and even boast a touch of good fortune with two own goals scored in their favour.

Leadership and consistency have been crucial. Captain Jasper Judd has played more minutes than anyone in the league with 796, while centre-back Sean Somade sits just behind on 791 – proof of the team’s enduring reliability and work ethic. At the back, keeper Harry Whitworth has been superb, keeping four clean sheets in seven games, with a 57.1% save rate, the joint-best record in the country.

u21s Name

u18s apps goals

Kai-Reece ADAMS COLLMAN Asher AGBINONE

9

Dean BENAMAR

1

Luke BROWNE

9

Rylan BROWNLIE

2

Name

apps goals

Raihaan ANDERSON

2

David ANGIBEAUD

11

2

Dean BENAMAR Sebastian BONSO-AMAKO

5

1

Makai BERNARD-FERGUSON

10

5

Rio CARDINES

3

Benji CASEY

9

13

Benji CASEY

6

Euan DANAHER

9

Matteo DASHI

3

Joel DRAKES-THOMAS

2

Joel DRAKES-THOMAS

5

Jacob FASIDA

6

Khyan FRAZER-WILLIAMS

9

Ajean-Ray GREAVES

7

Marcus HILL (GK)

2

Jasper JUDD

11

Oladotun LAMIDI

6

Donte MARTIN

11

1

Craig FARQUHAR Jacob FASIDA

6

Joe GIBBARD

6

Jake GRANTE

8

2

2

Zack HENRY 3

Marcus HILL (GK) Jack MASON (GK) Jackson IZQUIERDO (GK)

1

Mofe JEMIDE

8

George KING

5

Harry LEE (GK)

9

Zach MARSH

10

7

Adler NASCIMENTO

10

1

David OBOU

2

Dylan REID

10

Kaden RODNEY

8

Charlie WALKER-SMITH

1

Thiago SPERONI (GK)

Tyler WHYTE

6

Charlie WALKER-SMITH

10

Sebastian WILLIAMS

8

Harry WHITWORTH (GK)

8

Jayden McDONALD

From back to front, every number tells the same story – this is a Palace U18 side who have fully bought into Alonso and his brand of football. With belief running high and goals flowing freely, the young Eagles look every bit a team ready to make this a season to remember

.

2

Aiden MORGAN 2

Joshua MUWANA

1

Stuart ODURO

11

7

Chuks OKOLI

10

2

Jerome OSEI KYREMEH Daniel OWOADE

2

1

Remi AHAZIE-SHITTU

1

2

Sean SOMADE

11

All statistics correct as of 17:00 Thursday, 6 November. th

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1

WOMEN

palace women

As soon as the goal went in, I went ‘wow’ and I nearly started crying but I had to focus for the next two minutes. I blew my Ma a kiss, to be fair! she was crying in the stands, but it was amazing

abbie larkin Tuesday, 28th October 2025 marked a significant moment in the history of women’s football in the Republic of Ireland, as the Girls in Green progressed past Belgium to guarantee Nations League A status, and a play-off place in 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification.

a

4-2 win in Dublin in the first leg put Ireland in the driving seat, but the Red Flames went 2-0 up within 45 minutes in Leuven, and the tie looked destined for extra-time and penalties.

Ireland boss Carla Ward looked to her bench for a gamechanger on 60 minutes, and Crystal Palace winger Abbie Larkin entered the field.

With 90 minutes on the clock and the tie level at 4-4, the tension was palpable in the Den Dreef stadium.

Then, a failed clearance from a Belgium defender landed at Larkin’s feet, who turned and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper and into the net.

There was ecstasy in the Ireland away end, as Palace’s number 27 was mobbed by her teammates. Her late strike not only won Ireland the game, but has given them a big chance of qualifying for a World Cup finals.

Speaking to the amassed media after the game, an emotional Larkin said: “Honestly, it is one of the best feelings I have ever had!

“Credit to the girls in the second half, we fought through even though the score wasn’t going our way and we never gave up.

“That just shows what we are all about.”

Reliving her momentous goal after the game, it was clearly a moment full of emotion.

Larkin said: “I definitely meant the first bit if everybody’s seen it.

“I didn’t miskick the ball! Kyra [Carusa] gets the ball, she plays a

52

beautiful ball but it is intercepted.

Then I anticipate she’s going to hit it.

“I didn’t mis-kick the ball. I purposely just let it go past me and dinked the keeper.

“Basically, it’s an assist by Kyra, so I’m really happy. The goal went in and I just seen my mam and dad in the stands and blew them both a kiss. I’d say she was crying.”

It was just her second goal for the Ireland senior team, and what an important goal it was.

Speaking about her instant react when she saw the ball hit the back of the net, she said: “As soon as the goal went in, I went ‘wow’ and I nearly started crying but I had to focus for the next two minutes.

“I am so proud of myself for what I have done today − to score a lastminute winner is one of my dreams and hopefully I can do it a lot more in the future.

“I blew my Ma a kiss, to be fair!

She was crying in the stands, but it was amazing.

“Even having them here to experience that with me was a

WOMEN

feeling I’ll never forget and I really appreciate them.”

This isn’t the first time that the young Palace winger grabbed the headlines.

In 2023, at just 18-yearsold, she set a new record as the youngest player in Ireland’s football history - male or female- when she appeared against hosts Australia at the World Cup. Despite the significance of that moment in 2023, Larkin feels her most recent international chapter tops it.

She added: “I think it beats the World Cup; to be honest, it’s a last-minute winner and in a very important game. To not have to go to penalties is one of the best feelings.

“It is one hundred per cent my biggest moment. My family was here today, so having my mam and dad in the crowd literally made it even more special.”

With Ireland on the right track to earn their second-ever World Cup appearance, Larkin’s focus now turns to Crystal Palace.

She was voted the TEN Player of the Month for September and was also nominated for the Barclays Women’s Super League 2 Goal of the Month, after her stunning strike against Southampton.

Palace Women are up against Sheffield United at home today, needing points, and having a player who can deliver a winner in the most high-pressure moment is invaluable.

All eyes will be on Larkin as the Eagles aim to start turning potential into results

.

fixtures&results

playerstats Name

Home Away FA Cup League Cup SEPTEMBER

apps goals

Eve ANNETS (GK)

2 4

Sun 7

Charlton Athletic

L

1-0

Chloe ARTHUR

Sun 14

Southampton

D

4-4

Zara BAILEY

Sun 21

Nottingham Forest

W

1-2

Annabel BLANCHARD

L

1-2

Lola BROWN

1

1-1

My CATO

4

october

Aimee EVERETT

4

Sun 5

Newcastle United

D

2-2

Josie GREEN

4

Sun 12

Sunderland

D

1-1

Shanade HOPCROFT

5

3-2

Kirsty HOWAT

9

november

Elise HUGHES

9

1

Sun 2

Portsmouth

Abbie LARKIN

9

2

Sun 9

Sheffield United

Ruesha LITTLEJOHN

4

Sun 16

Ipswich Town

Jamie-Lee NAPIER

8

Sun 23

Leicester City

Hayley NOLAN

9

Indiah-Paige RILEY

3

Molly-Mae SHARPE

4

Isabella SIBLEY

1

Wed 24 London City Lionesses Sun 28

Sun 19

Durham

D

Ipswich Town

december Sun 7 Sun 21

Birmingham City Bristol City

january Sun 11

Sheffield United

Sun 25

Durham

february Sun 1

Southampton

Sun 8

Bristol City

Sun 15

Birmingham City

march

W

L

2-1

9

1

3

1

Allyson SWABY

7

1

Justine VANHAEVERMAET

9

2

Emma WATSON

8

2

Ashleigh WEERDEN

9

2

Shae YAÑEZ (GK)

7

pos club

P

W

D

L

GD

1

cha

7

5

2

0

6

Pts 17

1

2

9

13

Sun 15

Nottingham Forest

2

bir

7

4

Sun 22

Newcastle United

3

bri

7

4

1

2

1

13

4

nfo

7

4

0

3

1

12

Sun 29

Charlton Athletic

5

sou

7

3

2

2

6

11

6

new

7

2

3

2

1

9

7

sun

7

2

3

2

1

9

8

shu

7

2

2

3

-4

8

9

dur

7

2

1

4

1

7

10

cry

7

1

4

2

-1

7

11

por

7

2

0

5

-9

6

12

ips

7

1

1

5

-12

4

april Sun 5

Ipswich Town

Sun 26

Sunderland

may Sun 3

Portsmouth

All statistics correct as of 17:00 Thursday, 6th November.

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PALACE FOR LIFE

palace for life

donate to palace for life below

On Wednesday, 15th October, Palace for Life brought together the Crystal Palace community at Speaker’s House to celebrate the club’s FA Cup and Community Shield victories and to highlight our ongoing work supporting young people across South London.

a

s the official charity of 2025 FA Cup winners Crystal Palace F.C. we help young South Londoners stay physically and mentally healthy, provide early support to divert them from crime or anti-social behaviour and open up pathways into education, training and employment.

To mark the historical cup wins and highlight our ongoing support for young people in South London, we hosted an event at Speaker’s

House to showcase that work and reflect on the wider impact of Palace’s FA Cup triumph on the club, its fans and the local community.

Those in attendance included Palace manager Oliver Glasner, former club captain Joel Ward, Chairman Steve Parish, Palace Women players Aimee Everett and Molly-Mae Sharpe, Members of Parliament and representatives from the wider Palace community, including fundraisers, media,

54

The eyes of the football world are on Palace right now. Our aim is to use this spotlight to create lasting change for young South Londoners, not just for this season, but for the next generation

PALACE FOR LIFE

influencers and Palace for Life Investors among other special members of the Palace community.

Opening the celebration was Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons since 2019, followed by a warm welcome from Parliament sponsors Liam Conlon MP and Peter Fortune MP. Guests then heard from Palace for Life CEO Mike Summers, who said in his programme notes: “For more than 30 years we have been using the power of football to reach young people who often feel overlooked or underestimated. We help them build confidence, stay healthy, avoid the pull of crime or anti-social behaviour and open doors to education, training and work. Each year we support over 18,000 young people, and this FA Cup victory has given us the opportunity to reach even more.

The eyes of the football world are on Palace right now. Our aim is to use this spotlight to create lasting change for young South Londoners, not just for this season, but for the next generation.”

Following Mike’s remarks, Ed Warner, former Chair of Trustees and now Patron of Palace for Life, joined Palace Chairman Steve Parish on stage. Steve spoke openly about what it meant to win the FA Cup, both as Chairman and as a lifelong fan, and reflected on his pride in how far Palace for Life has come during his 15 years at the club.

Following Steve, we heard from Toby, a young South Londoner on our Targeted Intervention programme,

who, before a life changing trip to France with Palace for Life, had barely left London. Toby and his mentor Sarah discussed a French exchange trip he embarked on last year, which, in his own words ‘helped him more than five years at school’.

Toby has autism and first engaged with our work to improve his confidence and expand his opportunities in life, and when the chance to visit France to support disadvantaged young people in the country came about, he dived into it head first. This life changing experience saw Toby lead his own sports activities for French children and is what helped him get to where he is now; working as a teaching assistant in a SEND school, using his experiences to support other young people facing challenges of their own.

After a closing statement from Chair of Trustees Paul Cleal, attendees enjoyed a photo with the FA Cup and Community Shield trophy and soaked up what as was inspiring event with ‘Palace at the Palace’

.

To help us support more young South Londoners with their mental health, you can donate using the QR code.

55

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PALACE FOR ALL

palace for all

edi strategy

Palace for All is the club’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) brand, and the umbrella beneath which all our campaigns, activations and initiatives sit. The message is simple: Crystal Palace Football Club is for everyone. We continually celebrate the diversity across our club, and take a proactive approach to tackling prejudice and promoting understanding.

Our EDI Strategy sets out our aspirations as a club until 2034, as well as our objectives and commitments towards being an inclusive and diverse club.

Palace for All matchdays To celebrate our dedicated Men’s Palace for All matchday last weekend, a number of activities took place in the Fanzone, including the display of content from our new exhibition, Celebrating Black Legacy in British Football.

Our dedicated Women’s Palace for All matchday will take place this Sunday (9th November, 14:00 GMT), when Palace host Sheffield United at the VBS Community Stadium – with more activities to take place in the Fanzone.

wellbeing strategy Our newly published Wellbeing Strategy highlights our approach to ensure Wellbeing is at the heart of the club’s culture.

how to Report Discrimination Crystal Palace Football Club is committed to identifying, confronting and eliminating discrimination, whether by reason of race, colour, nationality, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, age, ethnic and national origin, pregnancy or maternity, disability or gender reassignment.

You can report discrimination and/or abuse on a matchday by

57

using the Anti-Social Behaviour Text Alert Service – the number is 07507 477 669 – or by scanning the MyVoice QR code, which can be found around the stadium and inside the front cover of the programme

.

More information can be found at cpfc.co.uk/information/equalityand-diversity

international eagles

international eagles We’re now less than 12 months away from the biggest footballing spectacle on the planet, the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the potential for plenty of Palace representation in USA, Mexico and Canada, we’re looking ahead to the tournament throughout 2025/26 with our International Eagles feature. In each issue we’ll be taking a look at one nation aiming for glory in North America and examining their Palace links.

This week we’re heading over to northern Africa – and the first ever World Cup semi-finalists from the continent – Morocco!

eagle in focus

morocco chadi riad Riad joined Crystal Palace in June 2024, arriving with a glittering reputation after playing for multiple clubs across various tiers of Spanish football.

Born in Palma de Mallorca to Moroccan parents, Riad initially joined La Liga side Real Mallorca’s youth system. The technically gifted defender’s football education swiftly advanced to a new level in 2019. Shortly after turning 16, he signed for Barcelona, joining their famous La Masia academy.

The 2022/23 season was special for Riad, who featured regularly for Barcelona’s B team and even made his debut for the senior side in November 2022. To gain further La Liga experience, he made the switch to Real Betis on loan for the 2023/24 campaign, making 30 appearances

58

in all competitions, helping Los Verdiblancos finish 7th.

The centre-back recorded his Palace debut against West Ham United in the club’s first home league fixture of the 2024/25 campaign.

But, just days later, in the Eagles’ next home game at the end of August, as they beat Norwich 4-0 in the EFL Cup, Riad suffered a knee injury, which had him sidelined until December.

He next appeared in January 2025, when Palace won 1-0 against Stockport County in the FA Cup Third Round.

However, bad luck struck again, and he sustained another injury setback. Riad still received an FA Cup winners’ medal for his earlier contribution, underlining his importance to the team.

Despite a tricky 2025 to date, the faith remains in a player brimming with tremendous potential. Riad returned to the matchday squad this week and – as he closes in on full fitness – will have one eye on potentially making Morocco’s World Cup squad.

international eagles

Road to the 2026 World Cup

population

38,000,000

Capital

rabat Spoken Languages

Arabic, Amazigh (Berber), French, Spanish

In September Morocco became the first African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup finals with a resounding 5-0 win over Niger. Since then, the Atlas Lions have also beaten Zambia and the Congo Republic in their remaining qualification matches.

Morocco have been in unstoppable form, comfortably finishing top of Group E and winning all eight games while scoring 22 goals and conceding just two.

Walid Regragui’s side are looking to build upon their groundbreaking 2022 World Cup campaign, in which Morocco became the first ever African team to reach the semi-finals in the tournament’s history. They bravely bowed out to France

Currency

Moroccan Dirham

favourite dish

Couscous

59

in the last four, having already seen off Spain and Portugal.

The 2026 World Cup will be Morocco’s seventh appearance in finals history and, as they are also due to co-host the tournament’s 2030 edition with Portugal and Spain, it’s an exciting period for football fans throughout the nation.

60

Football Remembers

Every year Premier League clubs come together to pay tribute to the Armed Forces community and support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

Players across the country wear the poppy on their shirt as a sign of respect, and since 2012 Premier League clubs have raised over £5 million via shirt auctions.

The money raised through your donations helps the Royal British Legion provide vital support to the Armed Forces community all year round.

Donate to the Poppy Appeal today:

61

IAN KING

fa cup archives

man city

11

palace

4

Saturday, 20th February 1926

Following on from last season’s glorious FA Cup Final triumph at Wembley, historian Ian King takes a look at Crystal Palace’s history through the lens of 19 classic cup ties. This week a look at one of football’s rare beasts − an 15-goal thriller....

starting 01

Billy Callender

02

Jack Little

03

Charlie Cross

04

Bob M©Cracken

05

Terrance Coyle

06

Bobby Greener

07

Albert Harry

08

Cecil Blakemore

09

Percy Cherrett

10

Alf Hawkins

11

George Clarke

t

his game is included because of its historic context – the only league or cup game the club has played which contained 15 goals and the rare occasion the club has scored four away goals in a cup tie against Football League opposition.

And all this after defeating Chelsea in the previous fourth round at Selhurst Park that set a ground attendance of 41,586, a record that would stand for 39 years.

62

On a dull but dry day the game was played on a pitch with a large number of bare patches, in front of a crowd of over 50,000 spectators including an estimated 500 supporters from South London, many of whom had come via a special train.

With a strong breeze behind them City chose to kick-off. After only four minutes Bob McCracken was adjudged, somewhat unluckily, to have handled in the penalty area and City converted the spot kick.

IAN KING

Soon after Albert Harry appeared to have been tripped in the Citizen’s area but the official decided against a second spot-kick.

The home side then went on the rampage as, despite many brave efforts from Billy Callender, they added a further six goals before the break, although the Glaziers had hit the woodwork twice through Cecil Blakemore and Percy Cherrett.

Meanwhile, Blakemore also sustained an injury that kept him off the pitch for some time (no substitutes in those days) and in the second-half he resumed out on the right wing.

Palace now made more of a game of it forcing corners and then a goal came when Cherrett headed home Harry’s cross – only for the City to add an eighth.

Much to the surprise of the crowd Palace began to overrun the City defenders as Cherrett claimed his second goal, George Clarke created an opening for Harry that went over the bar and then Clarke netted in a goalmouth scramble.

Barely a minute later Palace were awarded a spot-kick but although Clarke’s kick hit the crossbar, McCracken netted the rebound.

Palace then faded in the last 15 minutes as City rattled in three more goals to complete a remarkable afternoon.

Such was the crowd’s appreciation of our keeper’s efforts that at the final whistle he was ‘chaired’ shoulder high off the pitch to the stand, with later rumours that the Manchester club were interested in a couple of Palace players.

PLAYER IN FOCUS BILLY CALLENDER Billy was born in January 1903 in Prudhoe, Northumberland, with the surname of Coulson, changing it to Callender from his adoptive parents.

He joined Palace October 1923 from his local club Prudhoe Castle, after a short time working in the local coalmine, to be understudy to Jack Alderson, saving a penalty in his first game for the Reserves. He made his first team debut in March 1924, deputising for the unavailable Alderson, and then was the regular custodian from January 1926, earning a place in a Football League representative side against The Army later that year.

For the next six years Billy was rarely absent through illness or injury and only missed one game in the 1928-29 campaign in the Third Division South, as the club finished second to Charlton Athletic, equal on points but denied promotion by goal average when only one club qualified.

In April 1931, he was awarded a Testimonial game only for a knock in the previous game to stop him from playing – so he ran the line instead!

All the time Billy was producing outstanding performances, his beloved fiancée

63

contracted polio and as her health declined. He was spotted pushing her in a wheelchair then a fortnight after the end of the 1931-32 season, after being at her bedside for seven weeks, Ella sadly passed away.

Billy took her death very badly and tragically took his own life one day before training.

His body was returned to the North-East where reported thousands turned out for his funeral and he was laid to rest in Prudhoe.

In July 2022 a group of Eagles’ supporters, along with town councillors and others attended his grave to pay tribute to this Palace legend, fans having donated to have the grave cleaned beforehand.

remembrance day

remembrance day On Remembrance Day we honour those that served their country during conflict. Here – in an article contributed by Alan Russell – we pay tribute to those servicemen in World War I and World War II who lost their lives during the conflict…

a

s the First World War got underway in 1914, a wave of patriotism swept across the country. Much of the male population signed up at enlistment offices and travelled to take part in the conflict, shipped off to Europe with the army to fight on the battlefields of Belgium and France.

A meeting at Fulham Town Hall in December was aimed at recruiting players for what would be known as the ‘Football Battalion’, with the unit’s official name being the Duke of Cambridge’s Own (Middlesex) Regiment, 17th Battalion. Players from both of today’s clubs were present,

Sydney Bourne, former Chairman of Crystal Palace.

as were other personnel associated with the sport such as the chairman of Crystal Palace, Sydney Bourne.

Many footballers who had played for Palace signed up for service in the army, but sadly not all would return home. Eight players that are known to have played for the Glaziers tragically perished during the conflict, including Richard Harker and Joseph Bulcock who would receive medals for their bravery in France and Belgium respectively, and Donald Bell, a teacher who had a contract with Palace but never appeared, and who won the Victoria Cross for his bravery at the Battle of the Somme.

Ultimately the list of players that served during World War I is longer than can be definitively stated, and almost all players either visited a battle-zone at some point during the conflict, or were working at home on government business not always disclosed, such as engineering, munitions, aircraft construction or war planning.

Some players did not travel to Europe but continued to play football, while still contributing to the war effort. Defender Ben Bateman was noted at one time as ‘recovering from wounds’ and would

64

be ‘returning soon to the trenches’, while goalkeeper Joshua Johnson, defender Horace Colclough and forward Sidney Sanders were all involved with the Royal Engineers, stationed in London.

While football continued at home during the Second World War, through the wartime leagues, plenty of players served and lost their lives. Palace’s George Handley, who had represented the club in the 1934/35 season, was killed during the invasion of Sicily in 1943 while serving as a Lance Corporal with the South Staffordshire Regiment.

His body was never recovered, and he is commemorated at the Cassino Memorial in Italy. He left behind a wife, Doris.

Brighton players who perished during the Great War include Clement Matthews, Charlie Dexter, Jasper Batey, Ernie Townsend, and Bob Whiting.

Today and every day, we remember all of those that paid the ultimate sacrifice, and thank everyone for their service to club and country. It is their service to their respective nations, along with their footballing careers, that ensures they will forever be remembered.

remembrance day

Joseph Bulcock

George Smith

Donald Bell

Died of Wounds, France & Flanders, 20th April 1918.

Killed in action, France & Flanders, 27th September 1915.

Killed in action, The Somme, France, 10th July 1916.

Richard Harker

Jimmy ‘Ginger’ Williams

Edward BelL

Killed in Action, France & Flanders, 9th April 1917.

Killed in action, France and Flanders, 5th June 1916.

Killed in action, The Somme, France, 24th March 1918.

Edwin Myers

Norman WooD

George Handley

Killed in action, France & Flanders, 15th September 1916.

Killed in action, France and Flanders, 28th July 1916.

Killed in action, Sicily, 9th July 1943.

65

CAMPAIGN CAPSULE

campaign capsule Throughout 2025/26, we’ll be revisiting some iconic seasons during Crystal Palace’s history. Today, we revisit our rollercoaster 1989/90 season, in which we secured Division One safety – and came mightily close to lifting silverware for the first time…

c

rystal Palace’s 1989/90 season was the beginning of a new era for the club, as it symbolised the Eagles’ return to the First Division and included a remarkable FA Cup run.

In the previous season, the Eagles finished third in the Second Division, missing out on automatic promotion by a point. Palace were forced to settle for the play-offs, but kept their composure, beating Swindon 2-1 on aggregate in the semi-final. Steve Coppell’s side displayed unbelievable resilience in the final, overcoming a 3-1 first-leg defeat to Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park with a 3-0 second-leg win in South London to secure their spot in the First Division.

The summer of 1989 subsequently signified a period of change for the club, with defender Mark Dennis and midfielder Andy Gray signed from Queens Park Rangers. Long-serving centre back Gavin Nebbeling departed the club after eight wonderful years in SE25.

Gray returned for his second stint at Selhurst Park, and with Palace’s squad boasting the likes of Geoff Thomas, Mark Bright and Ian Wright, fans felt proudly optimistic about the team’s potential in the top-flight.

89/ 90

seasonfacts

15th

league position

manager

Steve Coppell top goalscorer

Mark Bright BRAVE SAFETY EFFORT The season didn’t get off to an ideal start, as Coppell’s men managed just one win from their opening six league games. This tricky start included a sobering 9-0 loss to Liverpool at Anfield in September (fear not, Palace would have their revenge).

Indeed, the Eagles didn’t let this disappointment derail their confidence, and between 23rd September and 30th December, they won six of their 14 league matches. This sequence included brilliant back-to-back victories against Nottingham Forest and Everton;

66

17goals a thrilling 4-3 triumph over London rivals Millwall; and consecutive 2-1 away wins over Manchester United and Charlton Athletic in December.

1990 started worryingly, with four successive league defeats. But again, the Eagles demonstrated unwavering resilience, winning six and losing just four of their final 14 league fixtures to secure top-flight survival on their Division One return with a 15thplace finish. Palace’s home form was essential to their safety, as the club won eight games and tasted defeat only four times in 19 league clashes at Selhurst Park.

Palace also performed commendably in the Full Members’

CAMPAIGN CAPSULE

Cup, but over two legs of the Southern Area Final against eventual winners Chelsea in February and March, lost 4-0 on aggregate.

SPIRITED FA CUP EFFORT The second half of Palace’s season will be most remembered for the club’s extraordinary FA Cup run. Palace breezed through the competition’s early rounds, overcoming Portsmouth, Huddersfield Town, Rochdale, and Cambridge United.

In the semi-final, played at Villa Park, Palace drew Liverpool, who had beaten them twice in the league. With the indomitable Wright unavailable due to injury, squeezing past the Merseyside outfit appeared an overwhelmingly daunting task.

On the day, Ian Rush’s goal put Liverpool 1-0 in front at halftime. However, Palace started the second-half excellently, and swiftly equalised through Bright’s powerful finish. Gary O’Reilly fired Palace into the lead before Stephen McMahon smashed in the game’s next leveller.

Liverpool thought they had won it with John Barnes’ composed penalty, but Palace refused to give up and took the match to extra-time when Gray nodded in their third goal.

The Eagles dashed Liverpool’s hopes of winning a domestic double when Alan Pardew headed in the winner to round off an astonishing 4-3 victory for Palace, who played fearlessly. It was a truly unforgettable occasion as Palace defied the odds to set up a first-ever FA Cup final in the club’s history – against Man United.

In the First Division, Palace had drawn 1-1 and won 2-1 against

United, as both clubs finished with the same number of points. Coppell’s side entered Wembley in a confident mood, and Wright was fit enough to be named among the substitutes after two serious leg injuries, giving the squad a huge boost.

The score was 1-1 at half-time as O’Reilly’s flicked opener was cancelled out by Bryan Robson’s firm header. Mark Hughes’ goal temporarily had United leading 2-1.

Then, Coppell introduced Wright, who emphatically delivered on English football’s biggest stage. It felt like he had never been away – soon after coming on, the dazzling forward danced through the defence and coolly netted an iconic goal.

United couldn’t handle Wright, who volleyed in his second goal of the match in extra-time from John Salako’s teasing cross. But Palace were unable to hold onto their victory as Hughes grabbed a late leveller, taking the final to a replay.

In the rematch at Wembley, Sir Alex Ferguson’s team squeezed their way to a 1-0 win to break Palace hearts. Nevertheless, the team’s

67

spirited and determined journey installed pride amongst fans. The 1989/90 side battled bravely to retain its top-flight status and were so close to lifting the FA Cup. Overall, it was a valiant season that everyone at Palace could look back on with immense pride – and one which, of course, paved the way for greater memories at Wembley to come…

memorable match

4 Mark Bright, Gary O’Reilly, Andy Gray, Alan Pardew.

3 Ian Rush, Steve McMahon, John Barnes.

Sunday, 8th April 1990

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HALF-TIME WARM UP 68

BEHIND THE LENS

Taking us where many can only dream to tread, club photographer Sebastian Frej enjoys a unique perspective on Crystal Palace – one which he continues to share with the world.

You can follow Sebastian on Instagram: @sebastian_frej_

69

BEHIND THE LENS

01

“If one shot could sum up the Brentford game – this is probably it!”

70

BEHIND THE LENS

02

“It’s great to see Chadi back on the training pitch after his injury earlier this week.”

“Everyone was so happy to see Yéremy score against Liverpool. This shows what it means to him.”

71

03

EAGLE ARCADE

eagle arcade

8 letters akinbiyi flinders

Another matchday is upon us at Selhurst Park, so it’s time to get your heads in the game – can you tackle all our tough teasers below?

wordfit Can you fit these 10 names to have played for both Palace and Brighton into the puzzle?

7 letters gibbons thomson 6 letters dickov dobbie kitson murray

k i t s o n

5 letters obika upson

who plays here?

Can you name the current Premier League team who play their home games at this ground?

72

EAGLE ARCADE

today’s mascots

spottheball

un-scramble theeagle

Un-scramble these three Palace players!

1

Athene kiddie

2024-

2

Archie gum

2021-

3

Maj tenants

1998-1999

age: 8

age: 7

harry burman

cooper hollingdale

prediction:

prediction:

2-0

3-1

age: 9

age: 9

evie mills

asa benjamin jones

prediction:

prediction:

2-0

2-0

age: 14

age: 14

leo taylor

olly weeks

prediction:

prediction:

2-1

3-1

age: 11

age: 14

teddy glindon

kai obeng yeboah

prediction:

prediction:

3-1

2-1

age: 12

joey hughes

Who Plays Here?: Burnley – Turf Moor Spot the Ball: C Un-scramble the Eagle: 1) Eddie Nketiah 2) Marc Guéhi 3) Matt Jensen

prediction:

1-2 73

Want to become a Palace mascot?

Scan the QR code above to find out more.

FROM THE TERRACES

from the terraces The page for supporters: taking your comments from the terraces into the programme. Want to get in touch? Use the details below.

To the king of Kingsthorpe, Happy 51st birthday steven daw, there is only one steven daw. Love pauline n squirby xx

Happy 80th Birthday to my Dad, Ken Keepen. He’s been coming to Selhurst since the 1950s and was at Wembley to see us win the FA Cup! Love Graham & Sue Keepen x

Happy 2nd Birthday to Mia Davis-Long, Nanny and Grandad Love you so much, here’s hoping for a big win for the Eagles

Happy Birthday to our Daddy James Smith! Hoping for a big win today. We love you Palace! Lots of love Boops and Pammy x

Happy 18th Birthday today Alex! We are very proud of you and love you so much, Mum and Dad xxxx ps COYP

Happy Birthday Harry, Love Mum, Dad & Charlie xxxx

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Happy Birthday to Ant and Ambrose. Have a wonderful Birthday and enjoy the match.

Love Nicola

Happy 9th Birthday Alfie Tucker, enjoy the game with Katie, love, Mum, Dad & all the family xxx

FROM THE TERRACES

HAPPY 60th ROB LOVE FROM THE BOLTS!

Happy 8th Birthday Aya, 1st football match today! Lot’s of Love Uncle Karl, Aunty Bonny, Charlie & Harry xxxx

Happy 16th Birthday to Ben Ricketts! We hope you have a great day! Love from all the family.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AARON with love from Nannie, Grandad, Mummy and all the family x

Unable to be at Selhurst in person today, but flying high in Denmark - It’s Emma B

Hi to Mila and Luka - celebrating their first trip together to Selhurst Park!

Happy 17th Liam! All our love, Grandad, Paul, Sophie, Dad, Seb, Poppy, Ron, Yogi & Hannah!

A big welcome to Selhurst Park to the real JP! Massive Palace fan who bleeds red and blue. Hope you enjoy your very first game!

75

Connie Mullins one of Crystal Palace’s oldest supporters passed away on October 27, aged 103. She had supported Palace since 1950 and had a Main Stand season ticket with her son David. CPFC did her proud when Joel Ward, her favourite player, lifted the FA cup and took us into Europe in her final year. What a legacy for Connie!

Email programme@cpfc.co.uk with a message of 30 words or fewer and an image to feature on our messageboard.

fixtures & results

25/26 fixtures & results

may

april

march

february

january

december

november

october

SEPtember

august

Home Away FA Cup Carabao Cup Conference League Community Shield Started Used sub Unused sub Goal(s) Yellow card Red card Date

Opposition

attendance/KICK-OFF

Sun 10

Liverpool

82,645

W

2-2 (3-2)

Sun 17

Chelsea

39,678

D

0-0

12th

Thu 21

Fredrikstad

23,013

W

1-0

Play-offs

Sun 24

Nottingham Forest

24,876

D

1-1

14th

Thu 28 Sun 31

Fredrikstad Aston Villa

10,016 41,036

D W

0-0 0-3

Play-offs 8th

Sat 13

Sunderland

25,154

D

0-0

9th

Tue 16

Millwall

16,754

W

1-1 (4-2)

Third round

Sat 20 Sat 27

West Ham United Liverpool

62,455 25,118

W W

1-2 2-1

5th 3rd

Thu 2

Dynamo Kyiv

6,839

W

0-2

League phase (7th)

Sun 5

Everton

51,770

L

2-1

6th

Sat 18

Bournemouth

25,125

D

3-3

8th

Thu 23

AEK Larnaca

23,038

L

0-1

League phase (16th)

Sun 26 Wed 29

Arsenal Liverpool

60,103 60,420

L W

1-0 0-3

10th Fourth round

Sat 1

Brentford

25,083

W

2-0

9th

Thu 6

AZ Alkmaar

20:00

Sun 9

Brighton & Hove Albion

14:00

Sat 22

Wolverhampton Wanderers

15:00

Thu 27 Sun 30

RC Strasbourg Manchester United

20:00 12:00

Wed 3

Burnley

19:30

Sun 7

Fulham

16:30

Thu 11

Shelbourne FC

20:00

Sun 14

Manchester City

14:00

Thu 18

KuPS Kuopio

20:00

Sun 21

Leeds United

14:00

Tue 23 Sun 28

Arsenal Tottenham Hotspur

20:00 16:30

Thu 1

Fulham

17:30

Sun 4

Newcastle United

15:00

Wed 7

Aston Villa

19:30

Sat 17

Sunderland

15:00

Sat 24 Sat 31

Chelsea Nottingham Forest

15:00 15:00

Sat 7

Brighton & Hove Albion

15:00

Wed 11

Burnley

20:00

Sat 21 Sat 28

Wolverhampton Wanderers Manchester United

15:00 15:00

Wed 4

Tottenham Hotspur

20:00

Sat 14 Sat 21

Leeds United Manchester City

15:00 15:00

Sat 11

Newcastle United

15:00

Sat 18 Sat 25

West Ham United Liverpool

15:00 15:00

Sat 2

Bournemouth

15:00

Sat 9

Everton

15:00

Sun 17 Sun 24

Brentford Arsenal

15:00 16:00

76

Result

Position Final

Daniel Muñoz Tyrick Mitchell Maxence Lacroix Marc Guéhi Ismaïla Sarr Jefferson Lerma Eddie Nketiah Yéremy Pino Matheus França Christantus Uche Jean-Philippe Mateta Nathaniel Clyne Daichi Kamada Will Hughes Adam Wharton Romain Esse Jaydee Canvot

Naouirou Ahamada Remi Matthews Chadi Riad

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 17 18 19 20 21 23 24 26 28 29 31 34 38 42 44 49 55 59

77

Rio Cardines

Justin Devenny

Jesurun Rak-Sakyi

Walter Benítez

Kaden Rodney

Caleb Kporha

Cheick Doucouré

Chris Richards

Borna Sosa

Dean Henderson

fixtures & results

premier league

leaguetable pos

P

W

D

L

F

A

GD

Pts

1

Club arsenal

10

8

1

1

18

3

15

25

2

manchester city

10

6

1

3

20

8

12

19

3

liverpool

10

6

0

4

18

14

4

18

4

sunderland

10

5

3

2

12

8

4

18

5

bournemouth

10

5

3

2

17

14

3

18

6

tottenham hotspur

10

5

2

3

17

8

9

17

7

chelsea

10

5

2

3

18

11

7

17

8

manchester united

10

5

2

3

17

16

1

17

9

crystal palace

10

4

4

2

14

9

5

16

10

brighton & hove albion

10

4

3

3

17

15

2

15

11

aston villa

10

4

3

3

9

10

-1

15

12

brentford

10

4

1

5

14

16

-2

13

13

newcastle united

10

3

3

4

10

11

-1

12

14

everton

10

3

3

4

10

13

-3

12

15

fulham

10

3

2

5

12

14

-2

11

16

leeds united

10

3

2

5

9

17

-8

11

17

burnley

10

3

1

6

12

19

-7

10

18

west ham united

10

2

1

7

10

21

-11

7

19

nottingham forest

10

1

3

6

7

19

-12

6

20

WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS

10

0

2

8

7

22

-15

2

All statistics correct as of 17:00 Thursday, 6th November.

MATCHWeek11 sat 08 nov 12:30

sun 09 nov 14:00

tottenham hotspur stadium

villa park

sat 08 nov 15:00

sun 09 nov 14:00

hill dickinson stadium

gtech community stadium

sat 08 nov 15:00

sun 09 nov 14:00

london stadium

selhurst park

sat 08 nov 17:30

sun 09 nov 14:00

stadium of light

the city ground

sat 08 nov 20:00

sun 09 nov 16:30

stamford bridge

etihad stadium

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Together Against Suicide

Crystal palace f.c.

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 14 17 18 19 20 21 23 24 26 28 29 31 34 38 42 44 55 59

Dean HENDERSON (GK) Daniel MUÑOZ Tyrick MITCHELL Maxence LACROIX Marc GUÉHI Ismaïla SARR Jefferson LERMA Eddie NKETIAH Yéremy PINO Christantus UCHE Jean-Philippe MATETA Nathaniel CLYNE Daichi KAMADA Will HUGHES Adam WHARTON Romain ESSE Jaydee CANVOT Borna SOSA Chris RICHARDS Cheick DOUCOURÉ Naouirou AHAMADA Remi MATTHEWS (GK) Chadi RIAD Caleb KPORHA Kaden RODNEY Walter BENÍTEZ (GK) Justin DEVENNY Rio CARDINES

brighton & hove albion f.c.

T. Robinson R. West M. Scholes T. Harrington P. Howard S. Massey-Ellis

1 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 34 38 42

Bart VERBRUGGEN (GK) Adam WEBSTER Lewis DUNK Jan Paul VAN HECKE Solly MARCH Brajan GRUDA Stefanos TZIMAS Georginio RUTTER Yankuba MINTEH Jack HINSHELWOOD Tommy WATSON Carlos BALEBA Danny WELBECK Charalampos KOSTOULAS James MILNER Olivier BOSCAGLI Kaoru MITOMA Jason STEELE (GK) Ferdi KADIOGLU Diego GÓMEZ Yasin AYARI Mats WIEFFER Maxim DE CUYPER Joël VELTMAN Tom McGILL (GK) Diego COPPOLA

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