Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca: Predicted Lineup and Team Updates

Published On: March 19, 2026

Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca: Predicted Lineup and Team Updates

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Crystal Palace travels to Cyprus tonight, aiming to finally break through the AEK Larnaca defense and secure their first-ever European quarter-final appearance.

The Eagles are in a “must-win” situation after a 0–0 draw in the first leg, where they controlled over 70% of the possession but failed to score. Manager Oliver Glasner’s team has recorded two consecutive goalless draws and is now up against a Larnaca side that has kept them scoreless in two matches this season. Additionally, only two of Palace’s last six games have seen both teams score, showing a strong defense that needs more finishing quality.

Crystal Palace team news

Oliver Glasner’s squad welcomes back a key defender but will miss their main goalkeeper. Daniel Muñoz is set to return to the lineup, offering a more natural option on the right compared to earlier makeshift solutions.

Meanwhile, Dean Henderson remains out due to illness and has not traveled with the team. Palace has taken the second most corners in the Conference League this season (52) and will rely on set-pieces to challenge a Larnaca team that hasn’t conceded in 315 minutes.

Walter Benítez is expected to start in goal in Henderson’s absence. The back three will likely include Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix, and the young Canvot. In midfield, Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada will aim to support forwards Ismaïla Sarr and Evann Guessand.

Jørgen Strand Larsen is favored to lead the attack, while Jean-Philippe Mateta may come off the bench as a physical alternative, as Palace seeks their first goal against the Cypriot side in three meetings.