Anticipated Clash: Crystal Palace versus Aston Villa

Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are set to face off in a highly anticipated Premier League clash at Villa Park on Sunday. Both teams have shown promising and disappointing performances in their opening matches of the 2025-26 season.

Aston Villa's 0-0 draw against Newcastle on matchday one offered some encouragement, but their 1-0 loss to Brentford last time out was far from impressive. The Villans will be hoping to secure their first Premier League victory of the season against Crystal Palace. However, they face a challenge as they will be without key players such as Boubacar Kamara, who suffered a thigh injury in the first half against Brentford, and Ross Barkley and Andres Garcia, who are currently injured.

Crystal Palace, on the other hand, have remained unbeaten in any competitive fixture this season, extending their streak to 13 matches, including the Community Shield. They secured their place in the Conference League group stage with a 0-0 draw at Fredrikstad, ensuring a 1-0 aggregate playoff victory. The Eagles have also impressed on the road, with a 2-2 draw in the same fixture against Aston Villa last season, followed by a 4-1 win at Selhurst Park and a 3-0 FA Cup semi-final triumph.

Crystal Palace have bolstered their squad with the acquisition of Spanish youngster Yeremy Pino from Villarreal, who is eligible to make his Premier League debut this weekend. Ismaila Sarr has also been in fine form against Aston Villa, having a direct hand in a goal in each of his six Premier League starts against them, scoring seven times himself and providing three assists.

Aston Villa have an unbeaten home record in their last 19 league matches at Villa Park, the longest ongoing top-flight home streak in England. Ezri Konsa returns from suspension for Aston Villa, potentially putting Pau Torres's starting spot under threat.

Both teams have shown their potential and weaknesses in their opening fixtures. Aston Villa will be hoping to take advantage of Crystal Palace's potential tiredness from their Conference League commitments, while Crystal Palace will be aiming to continue their impressive form on the road. With both teams eager to secure valuable points in the Premier League, this promises to be an exciting encounter at Villa Park.