Palace begin the 2026/27 Premier League campaign with a trip to Merseyside on Saturday as Pierre Sage’s side face Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
It promises to be an intriguing opening-day encounter between two clubs hoping to build on encouraging campaigns last season.
For Palace, this match represents the start of a new era under Sage following Oliver Glasner’s departure, while Everton will be looking to continue the progress made under David Moyes after narrowly missing out on a European place last season.
A New Chapter for Palace
Despite the managerial change, Palace have retained much of the core that delivered success last season. The Eagles head into the new campaign with optimism after keeping key figures such as Jean-Philippe Mateta, Daichi Kamada and Daniel Muñoz, while exciting young talents continue to emerge within the squad.
Much attention will be on Sage and how quickly his ideas translate into competitive action. Pre-season has offered glimpses of the Frenchman’s approach, with Palace looking to maintain the attacking threat and energy that became hallmarks of their recent success.
An opening-day trip to Everton is rarely straightforward, but it should provide an excellent early test of how far the squad has adapted to the new manager’s methods.
Everton Seeking Progress
David Moyes remains a hugely popular figure among the Everton faithful and deserves significant credit for stabilising the club. The Toffees spent much of the past few seasons looking over their shoulders, but recent improvements have changed the mood around the club.
Everton have strengthened their squad during the summer, adding players such as Hayden Hackney, Brennan Johnson, and Christian Norgaard, while keeping hold of influential forward Iliman Ndiaye. However, concerns remain regarding the full-back positions, an area many Everton supporters believe still requires reinforcement.
The hosts will be eager to make a strong start in front of what is expected to be a vibrant home crowd.
Key Battle: Daniel Muñoz vs Iliman Ndiaye
One of the most fascinating contests could see Daniel Muñoz and Iliman Ndiaye go head-to-head on Palace’s right flank.
Muñoz has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic wing-backs, offering relentless energy at both ends of the pitch, despite transfer speculation linking him with a move away from South London.
Ndiaye, meanwhile, remains Everton’s most dangerous attacking threat and will look to exploit any space available in transition.
Whichever player gains the upper hand could have a significant say in the outcome of the match.
Recent Meetings
Recent encounters between these two sides have been closely contested. Their most recent meeting ended in a 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park, while Everton have enjoyed a slight edge in the overall head-to-head record in recent seasons.
With both clubs tending to be well organised defensively while also carrying genuine attacking quality, another tight affair appears likely.
One to Watch: Jean-Philippe Mateta
If Palace are to leave Merseyside with all three points, there is every chance Mateta will be heavily involved. The striker continues to be one of the Eagles’ most important players and possesses the strength, movement and finishing ability to trouble Everton’s central defenders.
A fast start from the Frenchman could set the tone for Palace’s season.
Prediction
Opening day fixtures can often be difficult to predict. Palace are still adapting to a new manager, while Everton will be buoyed by home support and eager to make a statement.
There should be chances at both ends, but this feels like a contest where neither side will want to overcommit too early in the season.
Prediction: Everton 1-1 Crystal Palace
What is your score prediction for the Eagles’ opening Premier League fixture? Let us know in the comments below. 🦅💙❤️
