Craven Cottage will be the venue for a London derby on Sunday as Fulham plays host to Crystal Palace in a Premier League match where separating the two sides is proving difficult for pundits.
Fulham, currently sitting in 15th place, is aiming to distance themselves further from the relegation zone. Marco Silva's team experienced a thrilling yet ultimately disappointing match against Manchester City in midweek, losing 5-4 after mounting a late comeback from 5-1 down. Despite the loss, the Cottagers have shown resilience at home, winning four of their seven Premier League fixtures at Craven Cottage. Fulham will be without Antonee Robinson and Rodrigo Muniz due to injury.
Crystal Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, are enjoying a strong season, currently positioned fifth in the league standings and potentially within reach of a Champions League spot. The Eagles secured a 1-0 victory against Burnley in their recent match, bouncing back from consecutive losses to Strasbourg and Manchester United. Crystal Palace boasts a solid defensive record, having conceded just 11 goals this season, the second-fewest in the league behind Arsenal. Glasner will be hoping Borna Sosa recovers from a knock, while Ismaila Sarr, Cheick Doucoure, Chadi Riad, Caleb Kporha and Rio Cardines are all set to miss out.
Historically, Crystal Palace has had the upper hand in recent encounters with Fulham, winning their last two meetings at Craven Cottage. In their last 18 competitive matches, Crystal Palace has won six, Fulham has won four, and eight have ended in a draw. Crystal Palace is also unbeaten in their last seven visits to Craven Cottage since 2005.
Several factors point towards a potentially tight contest. Fulham's attacking capabilities were on full display against Manchester City, suggesting they can trouble Crystal Palace's defense. However, Crystal Palace's defensive strength and tactical organization make them a tough team to break down.
Bookmakers are finding it difficult to split the two teams, with Fulham slightly favored. Odds for over 2.5 goals suggest expectations for a potentially open game. Pundits predict a draw.
Given both teams' strengths and weaknesses, a closely contested match is anticipated.
