When the Premier League returns after the international break, Wolves’ clash with Crystal Palace will be an interesting clash between two teams in very different situations. Reigning FA Cup and Community Shield champions Crystal Palace are now settling in under Oliver Glasner and continuing to build on the structure and profile he has established since taking over.

The Wolves, on the other hand, have struggled to find stability after losing several key players and replacing a head coach who was unable to get the best out of the team. Their recent appointment of Rob Edwards is seen as a fresh attempt to restore direction and lift the team out of the relegation zone.

While this game may not be as high-profile as a championship-deciding clash, it has steadily developed into a competitive and unpredictable matchup in recent seasons. A whopping 30 goals have been scored in the last eight meetings between the two sides, while there have also been some unexpected and shocking results.

Crystal Palace are looking for points to push Oliver Glasner’s side into the top four, while Wolves are still looking for a first league win of the season, with both teams viewing this game as a significant opportunity – one that could change their momentum going forward.

Can Rob Edwards make Wolves competitive again?

For the Wolves, just one win isn’t enough. If fans are to fully embrace his football philosophy, the team’s performance under the new manager must also show clear signs of improvement. Edwards’ appointment initially raised eyebrows as the 42-year-old, who made more than 100 appearances for Wolves at defender between 2004 and 2008, left English League Two second-placed Middlesbrough, the club he joined in June, to take over the role.

He now inherits a fractured Wolves team that is bottom of the Premier League table without a win and eight points outside the relegation zone, and an immediate turnaround is both necessary and demanding. Both teams will be looking for a win to build momentum against Crystal Palace, especially with the festive fixtures around the corner.

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Key players from Wolves’ match against Crystal Palace

Wolves

Strand Larson

In a team full of inconsistencies, 6-foot-4 Norwegian forward Strand Larsen has been Wolves’ most outstanding player this season, scoring three goals and firmly establishing himself as the club’s top scorer. His tireless running, willingness to drop deep and ability to link up play – combined with a keen eye for goal – make him one of the team’s most influential attacking channels. His presence and continued form will be crucial in turning one point into three if the home side are to secure victory against Wolves against Crystal Palace.

Huang Xican

Hwang is one of the Wolves’ longest-tenured players, now in his fifth season, and has yet to reach the level of ability that many knew he was capable of – a situation that may have been affected by the team’s overall woes.

The Korean is dynamic on his day and capable of creating magical moments, as he has proven in the past. Going forward, he could be crucial to the team’s style of play under the new regime and play a key role in helping Wolves escape the relegation zone.

crystal palace

Jean-Philippe Matata

France international Jean-Philippe Mateta has scored six goals this season and is arguably Crystal Palace’s most potent attacking threat. His physical attributes, intelligent movement and shooting ability make him a constant threat in the final third, able to turn the situation in the team’s favour. As Palace look to climb up the Premier League table, Mateta’s ability to convert chances will be crucial for Oliver Glasner’s side to finish in the top four.

Ismail Sarr

Senegalese Ismaila Sarr, now in his second season at Crystal Palace, is already very familiar with the Premier League having spent four years at Watford, where he scored 34 goals before a brief spell in France. This season, he has contributed nine goals and assists, proving himself to be the team’s key creative spark.

Sarr is a versatile presence in attack, combining pace, technique and significant strength to drive Palace’s attack. He can punish the backline if given space against Wolves and his sharp link-up with Mateta will be central to the team’s attacking ambitions.

Mark Gay

Englishman Mark Gay left the national team after suffering discomfort due to a foot injury he suffered during the club’s match against AZ Alkmaar. Gheishi was left out of the squad for England’s 2-0 win over Serbia and will now return to Crystal Palace to continue his recovery and will miss the Three Lions’ final World Cup qualifier in Albania.

The former Chelsea academy graduate, who saw a last-minute move to Liverpool fall through, continues to demonstrate why he is regarded as one of the best young centre-backs in England, as he is strong in duels, alert in space and reliable in build-up play. After missing the game against Brighton and resting for more than a week, he is likely to feature once he is fully fit, and if the 25-year-old does feature, he will play a key role in containing Wolves’ dynamic attackers.

Given his impressive form, he will be one of the most sought-after players in the January/summer transfer window, with the likes of Chelsea and Bayern Munich ready to make a move.

head to head

Molineux’s last eight Premier League clashes:

• 2 Wolves vs Crystal Palace 2
• 1 Wolves vs. crystal palace 3
• 2 Wolves vs Crystal Palace 0
• 0 Wolves vs. crystal palace 2
• 2 Wolves vs Crystal Palace 0
• 2 Wolves vs Crystal Palace 0
• 0 Wolves vs. crystal palace 2
• 1 Wolves vs. crystal palace 2

Recent history shows how unpredictable this game can be. The two sides met in the past 8 times, with 3 wins, 4 losses and 1 draw. Neither side has a clear advantage. Wolves haven’t had their best form at home this season, with their only win so far coming in the Carabao Cup, while they’ve only lost once in the league.

A bounce back under a new head coach under Rob Edwards could bring about changes and help them win.

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Betting Tips

Five of the last eight meetings between the two sides have seen more than 2.5 goals scored, and with both teams looking to build momentum after the international break, more goals seem likely.

Wolves have struggled defensively this season, conceding the most goals in the league (25), and they may face more problems against Crystal Palace, who have a more solid backline and have only conceded nine goals.

In addition, Wolves’ home performance has been inconsistent, and although a new coach may bring changes, Crystal Palace’s compact and disciplined lineup makes it difficult for opponents to break through. With that in mind, a draw is probably the most realistic outcome for Wolves.

Final Bet: Double Chance: Palace win or draw | Both teams score | Over 1.5 goals

Wolves vs Crystal Palace score prediction: 1-2

in conclusion

Wolves’ clash with Crystal Palace may not be the glamorous headliner of Gameweek 12, but it holds real significance for both clubs. A win could push Oliver Glasner’s side into the top four – depending on results elsewhere – while victory for new boss Rob Edwards would give them their first win and give them the belief they need to push for the relegation zone.

For Wolves fans, they just need to taste victory again. Their last win in the league came in April – a 3-0 victory over Leicester City. For Crystal Palace supporters, it’s a chance to extend their unbeaten run to five games, which would further cement their position in the top half of the Premier League table.

main photo

Credit: IMAGO/News Photos

Record date: October 26, 2025