Crystal Palace begin their first-ever European knockout match tonight against Bosnian champions Zrinjski Mostar at Bijeli Brijeg Stadium.
After a tough run in domestic competitions, the Eagles aim to revive their continental campaign. Despite hopes of winning the Conference League, Oliver Glasner’s team finished 10th in the league phase, missing out on automatic last-16 qualification. They head to Bosnia looking to recover from a 3–2 defeat to Burnley at home last week.
Zrinjski made history by becoming the first Bosnian club to reach the knockout stage of a major European contest, qualifying on goal difference in 23rd place. The “Nobles” are strong at home, remaining unbeaten at Bijeli Brijeg Stadium this season.
Zrinjski Mostar vs Crystal Palace – Match preview and team news
- Date: Thursday, 19 February 2026
- Kick-off: 17:45 GMT
- Venue: Stadion Bijeli Brijeg, Mostar
- Referee: Manfredas Lukjancukas (LTU)
- VAR: Aleandro Di Paolo (ITA)
Team News
Zrinjski Mostar
The Bosnian champions field a strong lineup, led by experienced goalkeeper Goran Karacic. The defense includes Luka Vranjkovic, Hrvoje Barisic, Filip Dujmovic, and Petar Mamic. In midfield, Neven Djurasek and Stefan Savic provide stability, with Franjo Abramovic joining them. The attack features Mario Cuze, supported by Igor Ivanovic and Niko Mikic.
Crystal Palace
Oliver Glasner faces a significant injury crisis, missing key players Jean-Philippe Mateta, Eddie Nketiah, and Cheick Doucouré. In their absence, club-record signing Jørgen Strand Larsen takes on the leading role, having scored his first two goals for the team last week against Burnley.
Form
Zrinjski Mostar
The hosts have shown they are tough to beat at home, with only one of their last seven competitive matches featuring goals from both teams. Zrinjski is known for scoring late in games, having netted after the 75th minute in all three of their home Conference League matches this season.
Crystal Palace
The South London team demonstrated strong away performance earlier in the competition, winning two of their three European away games in the league phase. However, they are seeking to improve their defense after conceding three goals in their last domestic match. This marks the first competitive meeting between these two teams.
Confirmed Starting Lineups
Zrinjski Mostar (4-3-3): Karacic; Vranjkovic, Barisic, Dujmovic, Mamic; Djurasek, Savic, Abramovic; Ivanovic, Mikic, Cuze
Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1): Henderson; Richards, Lacroix, Riad, Sosa; Munoz, Wharton; Kamada, Sarr, Johnson; Larsen
How to Watch Zrinjski Mostar vs Crystal Palace?
The match is live in the UK on TNT Sports 3 and can be streamed via the discovery+ app.
Read more- Iconic Duos: Chelsea’s impregnable pairing made of steel and silk, Terry and Carvalho
Add Footem.in As your Preferred Source on Google
Follow the latest on Footem WhatsApp Channel
