As we approach the business end of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, Matchday 35 promises to offer plenty of drama, tension and talking points. With just four fixtures remaining, clubs across the table are feeling the pressure—whether it’s for European qualification, mid-table respectability, or the all-consuming battle for survival. Monday’s sole encounter sees Crystal Palace host Nottingham Forest at Selhurst Park in a fixture that pits Cup romance against top-four ambition.
The Eagles are soaring high after booking a place in the FA Cup Final, while Nottingham Forest are clinging to their Champions League hopes by the thinnest of threads. Both teams have experienced fluctuating fortunes of late, and this clash could serve as a defining moment in how their seasons are ultimately judged.
Crystal Palace vs Nottingham Forest
Match Info
- Premier League Matchday 35 of 38
- Monday 5th May 2025, 15:00 EST / 20:00 GMT
- Selhurst Park, London, England
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace enter this encounter with Wembley dreams swirling in the background, but manager Oliver Glasner will know the importance of maintaining momentum on the domestic front. A trip to the FA Cup Final is a rare feat in the club’s history—just their third ever—and understandably, there’s been a sense of distraction in the league. However, that focus was restored in a big way when they demolished Aston Villa in the Semi Final, lifting spirits and raising hopes.
While the Eagles’ Premier League campaign has been streaky, their recent home form had been encouraging prior to a goalless draw against Bournemouth. That match was marred by a first-half sending off, yet Palace still held their ground. A 5-6-6 home record doesn’t scream dominance, but it does suggest resilience, especially with Selhurst Park often proving a cauldron for visiting teams. Glasner may rest a few names with the final on the horizon, but the core should remain intact for a push toward a top-eight finish.
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest are battling their own demons. What once looked like a fairy-tale push into the Champions League places has turned into a worrying wobble, compounded by their FA Cup exit to Manchester City. That loss was perhaps forgivable, but dropping points in the league has placed their European dreams at serious risk. Sitting sixth on goal difference, the Tricky Trees can ill afford another slip-up.
Despite recent struggles—four defeats in their last five in all competitions—Forest have proven they can spring a surprise away from home, as evidenced by a gritty 2-1 win at Tottenham. Their 9-2-6 away record gives them a fighting chance here, though the side desperately needs to rediscover its form. With Callum Hudson-Odoi a doubt and confidence low, this is a pivotal test for Nuno Espírito Santo’s men.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Crystal Palace to win
Palace’s buoyant mood following their FA Cup Semi Final triumph, combined with a solid run of home form, suggests they have the edge. Nottingham Forest’s recent downturn and the psychological blow of dropping out of the top four could weigh heavily on them at Selhurst Park.
America Bet Score Prediction
Crystal Palace 2 – 1 Nottingham Forest
Expect a tight affair, but with Palace riding the wave of FA Cup euphoria, they’re likely to have just enough to get over the line. Forest may strike on the counter, but Palace’s intensity and organisation at home should be decisive.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Crystal Palace to win
- Both Teams to Score – Yes
- Over 2.5 Goals
- Jean-Philippe Mateta to Score Anytime
- Nottingham Forest to Score First
- Crystal Palace to Win from Behind
- Correct Score – 2-1
- Palace to Win by Exactly One Goal
- Total Corners – Over 10.5
- First Goal to be Scored in First 15 Minutes
