Crystal Palace vs Lech Poznan – News and Probable Lineups

As Crystal Palace aims to elevate their European profile, they will commence their quest for further continental success on Thursday by hosting Lech Poznan at Selhurst Park.

The reigning champions of last season’s Conference League are gearing up for their first appearance in the Europa League against Poland’s titleholders.

Match overview

After becoming the third English club to lift the Conference League trophy in its short history, Crystal Palace celebrated their victory in Leipzig last season, marking a significant achievement under the management of Oliver Glasner.

Additionally, Palace were the first club to secure major silverware during their inaugural European campaign since 1988, showcasing the significance of this groundbreaking accomplishment.

Throughout their journey, the Eagles remained unbeaten in their last six home fixtures, having suffered an initial defeat to AEK Larnaca, but their lackluster domestic form appears to be persisting under new head coach Pierre Sage.

Following a thrilling 3-2 loss to Ipswich Town on Sunday, the French coach has suffered defeats in his first two league matches at Selhurst Park, though his team did achieve a victory against Middlesbrough in the EFL Cup recently.

As a result, Palace managed only 11 points from their home matches in the Premier League in 2026 and currently sit 16th on the table, prompting Sage to seek an immediate response on Thursday evening.

While Crystal Palace prepares for their first European fixture of the season, Lech Poznan had to overcome qualifying rounds to secure their spot in the Europa League.

After falling out of the Champions League chase with a penalty shootout defeat to Danish club AGF, Lech comfortably dispatched Faroese team KI Klaksvik and stunned the Swiss champions Thun.

The latter suffered a heavy defeat, losing 7-0 to Niels Frederiksen’s relentless squad in Poznan, before they drew 2-2 in the second leg, allowing Lech to progress smoothly through the playoffs.

After advancing to the last 16 of the Conference League last season, the Railwaymen went on to defend their Polish title, marking their consecutive participation in UEFA competitions for the first time since 1985.

Lech’s defense has started strong, registering five wins from seven matches in the highly competitive Ekstraklasa; however, they suffered a 2-1 defeat to new leaders Gornik Zabzre last week despite having a lead with 15 minutes to go.

Team News

Crystal Palace again faces absences with Dean Henderson, Chadi Riad, and Jean-Philippe Mateta unavailable due to injuries, while Eddie Nketiah remains questionable.

After failing to secure a move during the transfer window, Ismaila Sarr has been sidelined with a groin issue, but the Eagles’ leading scorer from last season’s Conference League campaign could soon return to action.

Following eight changes in their recent EFL Cup clash against Middlesbrough, Sage is expected to rotate his squad less significantly for Thursday’s match.

While Sarr scored nine European goals last term, Swedish winger Pontus Walemark netted six in six qualifiers for Lech Poznan this summer.

He is likely to support compatriot Mikael Ishak in attack; Lech’s experienced captain has made a record 18 goals in 28 major European appearances for the club.

Injured players Daniel Hakans, Alex Douglas, and Antoni Kozubal are poised to join long-term absentee Ali Gholizadeh on the treatment table.

Crystal Palace probable starting XI:

Blessedness; Mingueza, Richards, Ahanor; Khalaily, Timber, Wharton, Chilwell; Kamada, Pino; Larsen Beach

Lech Poznan probable starting XI:

Smooth; Pereira, Skrzypczak, Monka, Gurgul; Murawski, Berggren; Walemark, Rodriguez, Sayyadmanesh; Isaac

With back-to-back titles in the Polish top division, Lech Poznan presents a serious challenge for Crystal Palace, who are still adjusting to their new management.

As a result, the Conference League victors may settle for a point at home in their debut in the Europa League.