Crystal Palace vs Fulham Match Recap - Jan 1, 2026

Crystal Palace and Fulham Share the Spoils in a Mid-Table Stalemate

Crystal Palace's inability to convert possession into goals continues to haunt them, while Fulham's late equalizer showcases their resilience.

Crystal Palace's recent form has been a tale of frustration, with only one goal scored in their last two league matches. Despite dominating possession against Tottenham and Leeds, they failed to find the net, raising questions about their attacking potency. The match against Fulham was no different; they struggled to create clear chances, managing just three total shots and none on target. This trend of failing to capitalize on ball control has become a worrying pattern for manager Oliver Glasner.

Fulham, on the other hand, entered this match with a renewed sense of confidence after back-to-back victories against West Ham and Nottingham Forest. Their recent form has been characterized by efficiency rather than possession, as they have relied on quick transitions and set-pieces to secure crucial points. The late equalizer from Tom Cairney in this match exemplifies their ability to remain composed under pressure, a trait that has served them well in recent weeks.

Raúl Jiménez has been pivotal for Fulham, scoring in both of their last two league matches. His presence in the attacking third has provided a much-needed spark, and he was instrumental in creating opportunities throughout the game. Despite not finding the net against Palace, his ability to draw defenders and create space for teammates remains a key asset for Marco Silva's side.

The tactical battle between the two teams revealed contrasting approaches. Crystal Palace's 3-4-2-1 formation aimed to control the midfield, but they often found themselves outnumbered by Fulham's 4-2-3-1 setup. The visitors effectively utilized their width, with Harry Wilson and Emile Smith Rowe providing support to Jiménez. This allowed Fulham to exploit gaps in Palace's defense, leading to more shots and ultimately the equalizer.

Fulham's statistics from this match further highlight their efficiency. They led in total shots (3) and ball possession (59%), showcasing their ability to capitalize on limited opportunities. Their pass accuracy of 85% compared to Palace's 71% indicates a more effective use of the ball, allowing them to maintain pressure and create chances when it mattered most.

Crystal Palace's reliance on Jean-Philippe Mateta as their primary goal threat has not yielded the desired results lately. Despite his previous success this season, he struggled to make an impact against Fulham's disciplined defense. The lack of support from midfielders like Will Hughes and Adam Wharton further compounded Palace's difficulties in breaking down Fulham's backline.

The match also highlighted the importance of set-pieces for both teams. Crystal Palace managed to earn two corner kicks but failed to convert any into meaningful chances. In contrast, Fulham's ability to defend set-pieces effectively limited Palace's opportunities, showcasing their defensive organization under pressure.

Looking ahead, Crystal Palace will need to address their attacking woes as they prepare for their next fixture against Newcastle. The pressure is mounting on Glasner to find solutions that can translate possession into goals. Meanwhile, Fulham will aim to build on this momentum as they face Liverpool, seeking to continue their upward trajectory in the league.

This draw leaves both teams with 26 points, maintaining their mid-table status but highlighting the need for improvement if they hope to challenge for higher positions. The shared points may feel like a missed opportunity for Palace, while Fulham can take pride in their resilience and ability to fight back when needed.

In summary, this match encapsulated the ongoing struggles of Crystal Palace in front of goal while showcasing Fulham's determination and tactical adaptability. As both teams navigate the challenges of the Premier League, the lessons learned from this encounter will be crucial in shaping their respective paths moving forward.