Arsenal v Crystal Palace 2025/2026 – lineups, standings & timeline
Introduction: The London Derby Returns to North London
The Premier League is back with another exciting London derby as Arsenal host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, 26 October 2025.
The Gunners are in red-hot form, aiming to extend their unbeaten streak across all competitions, while Palace are desperate to rediscover consistency after a frustrating few weeks. Both sides are motivated — one chasing the title, the other looking to stop a slide down the table.
Fans can confirm fixture details, kickoff times, and official updates through the Premier League fixtures page.
Fixture Overview & Context
- Match: Arsenal vs Crystal Palace
- Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
- Kick-off: 14:00 GMT
- Venue: Emirates Stadium, London
- Referee: Thomas Bramall
For comprehensive team news, player stats, and latest injury reports, refer to BBC Sport – Arsenal, which provides pre-match analysis and insights directly from the training ground.
Current Form & Momentum
This fixture arrives with Arsenal in scintillating form, having strung together impressive victories over West Ham (2–0) and Fulham (1–0), plus a stunning 4–0 win against Atlético Madrid in the Champions League. Mikel Arteta’s side look fluid, organized, and full of confidence heading into this matchup.
Crystal Palace, however, are struggling for momentum. Their European campaign took a dent after a narrow defeat to AEK Larnaca, followed by a thrilling 3–3 draw against Bournemouth, where Jean-Philippe Mateta’s hat-trick salvaged a point.
Here’s how both teams’ recent form compares:
- Arsenal (last five): W – W – W – W – D
- Crystal Palace (last five): L – D – D – W – L
- Top Performers: Viktor Gyökeres, Declan Rice, Jean-Philippe Mateta
For deeper tactical metrics, player heatmaps, and form analysis, visit WhoScored — an excellent resource for match statistics and detailed player ratings.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Arsenal dominate this London derby, but Crystal Palace have a knack for causing problems when least expected. The Eagles earned a dramatic 2–2 draw the last time they visited the Emirates in April 2025.
Recent Meetings:
| Date | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 2025 | Arsenal 2–2 Crystal Palace | Premier League |
| Dec 2024 | Crystal Palace 1–5 Arsenal | Premier League |
| Dec 2024 | Arsenal 3–2 Crystal Palace | League Cup |
| Jan 2024 | Arsenal 5–0 Crystal Palace | Premier League |
| Aug 2023 | Crystal Palace 0–1 Arsenal | Premier League |
Overall Record:
- Arsenal Wins: 35
- Crystal Palace Wins: 6
- Draws: 17
Expect Arsenal to dominate possession, but Palace’s counterattacking efficiency keeps them dangerous throughout.
Arsenal Team News & Predicted Lineup
Mikel Arteta’s men approach this game with a few injury concerns. Gabriel Magalhães remains doubtful after hobbling off midweek, while Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, and Noni Madueke are long-term absentees.
However, Arsenal boast impressive squad depth, with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi forming a reliable midfield core.
Predicted Arsenal XI:
- Raya
- Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Calafiori
- Eze, Zubimendi, Rice
- Saka, Gyökeres, Martinelli
Key Tactical Notes:
- Rice’s composure and ball-winning ability are vital for Arsenal’s control.
- Saka and Martinelli will stretch Palace’s defense.
- Gyökeres’s movement will test Guehi and Lacroix.
Crystal Palace Team News & Predicted Lineup
Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace are without Caleb Kporha, Cheick Doucouré, and Chadi Riad, all recovering from injuries. There are no new concerns, though Chris Richards is expected to return after being benched against Larnaca.
Predicted Crystal Palace XI:
- Henderson
- Richards, Lacroix, Guehi
- Munoz, Wharton, Kamada, Mitchell
- Pino, Sarr
- Mateta
Key Tactical Notes:
- Palace will likely sit deep and hit on the counter.
- Wharton and Kamada will aim to disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm.
- Mateta remains their focal point for goals.
Tactical Breakdown: Styles & Key Battles
This encounter will feature two contrasting tactical identities:
- Arsenal’s structured, high-possession approach vs Palace’s compact counterattack setup.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Declan Rice vs Daichi Kamada – controlling tempo and pressing lanes.
- Gyökeres vs Marc Guehi – physical battle in central areas.
- Saka vs Mitchell – pace and positioning duel on the flank.
Arsenal are expected to press high and use Rice as their pivot, while Palace will seek quick transitions through Sarr and Pino. The match could hinge on whether Palace can absorb pressure without conceding early.
Players to Watch
For Arsenal:
- Viktor Gyökeres – deadly finishing and relentless work rate.
- Declan Rice – midfield leader and tactical anchor.
- Gabriel Martinelli – electric pace down the left wing.
For Crystal Palace:
- Jean-Philippe Mateta – clinical in front of goal.
- Yeremy Pino – unpredictable and creative outlet.
- Marc Guehi – defensive rock and organizer.
Predicted Scoreline
Based on form, quality, and tactical execution, Arsenal enter as clear favorites. But Crystal Palace have shown resilience and will push to make things uncomfortable.
Predicted Result:
➡️ Arsenal 2–1 Crystal Palace
Likely Goalscorers:
- Viktor Gyökeres
- Bukayo Saka
- Jean-Philippe Mateta
where to watch arsenal f.c. vs crystal palace f.c.
- UK: Sky Sports
- US: Peacock
- Canada: DAZN, fuboTV, Amazon Prime Video
- Australia: Stan Sport
Fans can follow real-time match updates and commentary via the Premier League Live App or BBC Sport Football Centre.
Fans’ Reactions & Expectations
On social media, Arsenal fans are buzzing about Arteta’s tactical evolution and Gyökeres’ goal-scoring form. Many expect a controlled yet high-intensity performance.
Crystal Palace supporters remain optimistic, hoping Glasner’s defensive discipline and Mateta’s finishing can cause an upset.
Expect a packed Emirates Stadium, electric atmosphere, and a derby full of energy and storylines.
FAQs – People Also Ask
1. What time is Arsenal vs Crystal Palace kick-off?
Kick-off is scheduled for 14:00 GMT, Sunday, 26 October 2025.
2. Where can I watch Arsenal vs Crystal Palace live?
Broadcast on Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (US), and DAZN (Canada).
3. What was the last result between these two teams?
A thrilling 2–2 draw in April 2025.
4. Who is Arsenal’s top scorer this season?
Viktor Gyökeres leads with double-digit goals in all competitions.
5. Can Crystal Palace upset Arsenal?
Possible — if they defend deep and capitalize on counterattacks.
Conclusion
The Arsenal vs Crystal Palace showdown on 26 October 2025 is more than just another fixture — it’s a clash of ambitions. Arsenal will aim to cement their position at the top, while Palace hope to reignite their campaign with a statement performance.
With tactical intrigue, electric atmosphere, and London rivalry pride on the line, fans can expect a captivating encounter at the Emirates Stadium.
In short, this derby promises goals, grit, and glorious football — the Premier League at its very best.