London derbies always pack a punch, and this one on April 20 at Selhurst Park promises more of the same. Crystal Palace, sitting comfortably in 13th with 42 points, face a West Ham side that's sweating in 17th on 32 points. It's a classic mismatch in the table, with Palace looking steadier while the Hammers fight to avoid the drop.
And let's not forget their last clash back in September 2025, where Crystal Palace snatched a 2-1 win at West Ham's place. That result might just give Oliver Glasner's men an edge here. They've got Mateta up front, who's banged in 10 goals this season, making him a real threat. Eberechi Eze chips in with assists, keeping things ticking for the Eagles.
But West Ham aren't going down without a fight. Jarrod Bowen's netted 8 goals, and he'll be key if they're to pull off an upset. The trouble is, injuries are mounting. Lukasz Fabianski's out with a back injury, which could leave their defense exposed. Over at Palace, it's a bit of a mess too—Caleb Kporha's sidelined with a back issue, Eddie Nketiah won't be back until late June due to a hamstring problem, Evann Guessand's dealing with a knee injury, and Chris Richards has knee troubles. That predicted 3-4-2-1 lineup for Palace, featuring Henderson in goal and Richards at the back per WhoScored, might need some tweaks.
This is more than just points on the line; it's a gritty London derby with West Ham in a full-on relegation scrap. Palace, though, are mid-table and breathing easy, which could let them play with less pressure. Expect Mateta to be the difference, given his scoring form.
Crystal Palace should edge this one. They're in a stronger spot and have that recent head-to-head boost. And with West Ham's leaky defense, goals could flow.
HOME_PLAYER: Jean-Philippe Mateta HOME_LOOK: Black French ethnicity, short dark hair, clean-shaven, tall muscular build (6 ft 4 in) AWAY_PLAYER: Jarrod Bowen AWAY_LOOK: White English ethnicity, dirty blonde side-parted hair, stubble beard, blue eyes
Recommended Bets
Bet 1 @1.90 — Crystal Palace to win; they've taken the last head-to-head and hold a better league position.
Bet 2 @2.00 — Over 2.5 goals; West Ham's poor goal difference suggests they'll concede, and Palace can capitalize.
Bet 3 @2.50 — Jean-Philippe Mateta to score anytime; as Palace's top scorer with 10 goals, he's likely to find the net.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
