Losing out in the domestic league and the UEFA Champions League, Manchester City have one final shot at silverware this season as they take on Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, May 17th, 2025 at 4:30 PM. Kick Off Nigeria editor Nwosu Chigozie looks into upcoming clash.
Crystal Palace vs Manchester City Match Preview
Manchester City, who have endured arguably their worst season under Pep Guardiola, are desperate to salvage pride by ending their campaign with a trophy. Having missed out on both the Premier League and Champions League titles, the Citizens will be under pressure to deliver at Wembley.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are making their third-ever appearance in the FA Cup final and are yet to lift the prestigious trophy. After impressive form in the latter part of the league season, the Eagles are dreaming of a historic upset to finally end their FA Cup drought.
Crystal Palace vs Manchester City Head-to-Head (Last Five Games)
- 12.04.2025: Manchester City 5-2 Crystal Palace (PL)
- 07.12.2024: Crystal Palace 2-2 Manchester City (PL)
- 06.04.2024: Crystal Palace 2-4 Manchester City (PL)
- 16.12.2023: Manchester City 2-2 Crystal Palace (PL)
- 11.03.2023: Crystal Palace 0-1 Manchester City (PL)
This will be the first time the two sides face each other in an FA Cup final. In recent Premier League encounters, Manchester City have dominated, winning three and drawing two of their last five meetings.
Recent Form: Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace have gone unbeaten in their last five Premier League matches, a run that helped them secure 12th place and ensure their top-flight status for another season.
Recent Form: Manchester City
Similarly, Manchester City enter the final unbeaten in their last five matches. Despite a turbulent season, their late form has kept them on track for European qualification and restored some confidence ahead of the final.
Player to Watch: Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)
Eze has been the creative heartbeat of Palace this season. With his dribbling, vision, and scoring touch, the England international could be the key to unlocking City’s defense and delivering a first-ever FA Cup win for the Eagles.
Player to Watch: Omar Marmoush (Manchester City)
The Egyptian forward has proven his worth during crucial moments. Marmoush, known for his unpredictability and sharp finishing, could be a game-changer for City if he finds space in Palace’s backline.
Crystal Palace vs Manchester City Best Betting Odds
- Manchester City to Win: 1.83 on 1xBet
- Over 2.5 Goals: 1.76 on 1xBet
- Both Teams to Score (Yes): 1.72 on 1xBet
- Crystal Palace to Score Over 0.5 Goals: 3.10 on 1xBet
