Crystal Palace vs AEK Larnaca prediction 12.03.2026 | UEFA Conference League

Crystal Palace enter the knockout tie with mixed but generally competitive form across competitions. In recent weeks they have recorded notable results such as a 3-1 victory away to Tottenham Hotspur and a 2-0 European win over Zrinjski in the knockout play-off round.

Under the management of Glasner, Palace have developed a dynamic attacking structure built around pace on the wings and aggressive pressing. Winger Ismaïla Sarr has been particularly influential, contributing three goals during the European campaign and emerging as one of the club’s most dangerous attacking outlets.

From a squad perspective, Palace’s depth in attack remains a key strength, with several forwards capable of contributing goals. If their attacking line converts chances more efficiently than in the earlier meeting, they should pose a significant threat in the first leg.

AEK Larnaca arrive in London as one of the most defensively organised sides remaining in the competition. The Cypriot club has conceded only one goal during their Conference League campaign while keeping five clean sheets, giving them the best defensive record in the tournament so far. More strikingly, they became one of only three teams to avoid a single defeat throughout the entire group phase.

Domestically, the team has also performed strongly, sitting near the top of the Cypriot First Division with a high win percentage and averaging close to two goals per match in league play.

Forward Riad Bajić remains a key attacking figure, already scoring important goals in Europe, including the strike that secured victory in the earlier meeting with Palace.