The Carabao Cup quarter-final brings an exciting London clash as Arsenal host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium. The winner of this tie will move on to face Chelsea in the semi-finals, and both sides will be eager to take a step closer to Wembley. Arsenal, currently leading the Premier League, are in excellent form and will look to extend their dominance in domestic competitions. Palace, meanwhile, are hoping to bounce back from a tough league defeat and make history by reaching the semi-finals for the first time since 2012.

Arsenal’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Arsenal approach this quarter-final in strong shape, having won 1-0 away at Everton on December 20. That result marked their third consecutive victory in all competitions, following wins over Club Brugge and Wolves. The Gunners have been particularly impressive at home, winning each of their last nine matches at the Emirates. Their consistency has been remarkable — they have scored in each of their last 22 games and remain unbeaten in 21 of their last 22 overall.

In the Carabao Cup, Arsenal have been efficient and disciplined. They have won both of their matches so far, defeating Port Vale and Brighton by identical 2-0 scorelines. Their defensive record in the competition is flawless, with no goals conceded. The team’s average of 2.0 goals scored per game and 0.0 conceded highlights their balance between attack and defense. Historically, Arsenal have lifted this trophy twice, in 1987 and 1993, and are now aiming to end a long wait for another League Cup triumph.

• Arsenal have won their last 9 home matches.


• They have scored at least once in their last 14 home games.


• They have not lost at half time in 19 of their last 21 home fixtures.


• At least one team failed to score at half time in 30 of Arsenal’s last 31 matches.

Despite a few absences — including Max Dowman, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Ben White — Arsenal’s squad depth allows them to rotate effectively. Former Palace player Eberechi Eze could feature from the start, adding an intriguing subplot to this encounter.

Crystal Palace’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Crystal Palace enter this match after a difficult 4-1 defeat at Leeds United, a result that ended their recent positive run. The Eagles have now gone three games without a win, conceding nine goals in that stretch. However, their Carabao Cup campaign has been encouraging — they edged past Millwall on penalties before producing a stunning 3-0 victory at Anfield in the last 16. That result showed their potential to cause upsets, even away from home.

Palace’s overall form has been mixed, with two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches. They average 1.6 goals scored and 2.0 conceded per game, suggesting both attacking promise and defensive vulnerability. In the Carabao Cup, they have averaged 2.0 goals scored and just 0.5 conceded, but this trip to the Emirates will be their toughest test yet. The Eagles have not beaten Arsenal since 2022, losing seven of the last eight meetings between the sides.

• Crystal Palace have won at half time in 8 of their last 13 matches.


• They have also led at the break in 8 of their last 12 away games.


• At least one team failed to score at half time in 31 of their last 33 matches.

Palace’s squad is stretched due to injuries and absences. Ismaila Sarr is away on international duty, while Daniel Munoz and Daichi Kamada are sidelined. Jean-Philippe Marteta remains a doubt with a knee issue. These absences could make it difficult for Palace to maintain their usual intensity, especially during a congested festive schedule that sees them playing their third game in six days.

Arsenal vs Crystal Palace Analysis and Prediction

This quarter-final promises to be a fascinating battle between two sides with contrasting momentum. Arsenal are in commanding form, particularly at home, where they have been nearly unbeatable. Their defensive solidity and attacking efficiency make them strong favorites to progress. Crystal Palace, on the other hand, face fatigue and selection challenges, and their recent defensive struggles could be exposed by Arsenal’s sharp frontline.

Head-to-head history also favors the Gunners. Arsenal have won four and drawn one of their last five meetings with Palace, including a 1-0 victory earlier this season. The Eagles’ last success in this fixture came over three years ago, and they have rarely managed to contain Arsenal’s attack at the Emirates. Given the current form and squad situations, another home win looks the most likely outcome.

Expect Arsenal to control possession and create the better chances, while Palace may rely on counterattacks and set pieces. However, with Arsenal’s strong defensive record and Palace’s recent inconsistency, the hosts appear well-positioned to advance to the semi-finals.

Arsenal vs Crystal Palace prediction by BetMines:
Home Win (1) with 54% probability.