The second leg of the UEFA Conference League playoff between Crystal Palace and Zrinjski Mostar promises to be a tense and tactical affair. After a 1-1 draw in the first leg, both sides will be eager to secure a place in the round of 16. The English side will rely on their home advantage at Selhurst Park, while the Bosnian visitors will look to spring a surprise and continue their solid run of form. With the tie finely balanced, every goal and defensive action could prove decisive in determining who advances to face either Mainz or AEK Larnaca in the next round.

Crystal Palace’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Crystal Palace enter this decisive fixture on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on February 22, a result that lifted their confidence after a challenging run of results. That win marked their second in the last five matches across all competitions (2 wins, 2 draws, 1 defeat), with an average of 1.2 goals scored and 1.0 conceded per game. In the Europa Conference League, the Eagles have been consistent, recording 4 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses, averaging 1.4 goals scored and just 0.8 conceded per match.

One of the most notable aspects of Palace’s European campaign has been their ability to start strong — they have led at half time in each of their last five Conference League matches. However, their attacking output at home has been somewhat limited, with Under 0.5 goals scored in two of their last ten home fixtures. Despite this, their defensive organization has often compensated for their lack of firepower, keeping them competitive in tight matches.

Injuries have been a concern for the London side, with several key players unavailable. Yet, the emergence of Ismaila Sarr as a reliable attacking threat has been a bright spot. The winger has scored three goals in this European campaign and remains one of the main hopes for the home fans. With a 4-3-3 setup expected, Palace will aim to control possession and press high, hoping to capitalize on Zrinjski’s defensive vulnerabilities.

• Crystal Palace have won 1-0 against Wolves on 2026-02-22.


• They have won at half time in their last 5 Europa Conference League matches.


• Under 0.5 goals have been scored in 2 of their last 10 home matches.


• Season record in the competition: W4 · D3 · L2 (Avg goals 1.4, conceded 0.8).

Zrinjski Mostar’s Recent Form and Key Stats

Zrinjski Mostar arrive in London after a 1-1 draw against Siroki Brijeg in their domestic league, maintaining a solid run of form that includes just one defeat in their last ten matches (6 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss). In the Europa Conference League, however, their record has been less convincing, with 2 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses, averaging 1.3 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game.

The Bosnian side have struggled particularly in away fixtures, losing their last three away matches in the competition at half time and failing to score in several of those outings. Their matches tend to be tight and low-scoring, with at least one team failing to score at half time in 37 of their last 39 games. This pattern suggests that Zrinjski often prioritize defensive solidity early in matches before opening up later on.

While they lack the individual star power of their English opponents, Zrinjski’s collective discipline and tactical flexibility have kept them competitive. They have alternated between a compact 5-4-1 and a more adventurous 4-2-3-1 formation, depending on the opponent. The team’s resilience and ability to grind out results could make them a tricky opponent for Palace, especially if they manage to score first.

• Zrinjski drew 1-1 against Siroki Brijeg on 2026-02-22.


• They have lost at half time in their last 6 Europa Conference League matches.


• Under 7.5 corners have been taken in their last 5 matches.


• Season record in the competition: W2 · D2 · L3 (Avg goals 1.3, conceded 1.6).

Crystal Palace vs Zrinjski Mostar Analysis and Prediction

The first leg’s 1-1 draw highlighted the balance between these two sides — Palace’s superior technical quality against Zrinjski’s organization and determination. The English side will look to impose their rhythm early, while the visitors are likely to sit deep and counterattack. Given both teams’ recent scoring patterns and the stakes involved, this second leg could again be a cautious and low-scoring affair.

Palace’s home advantage and slightly better attacking options make them the favorites, but Zrinjski’s resilience means the tie remains open. The Bosnians’ defensive approach could frustrate the hosts, especially if Palace fail to convert early chances. With both teams showing a tendency toward tight matches, the likelihood of a goal-fest appears slim.

Historically, the head-to-head record is limited, with the only previous meeting ending 1-1. Considering the data and recent performances, a narrow win for Palace or another draw seems plausible, but goals are expected to be scarce.

• Last head-to-head: 1-1 on 2026-02-19.


• Crystal Palace win probability: 46%.


• Draw probability: 25%.


• Zrinjski win probability: 29%.


• Over 2.5 goals: 48% · Under 2.5 goals: 52%.


• BTTS — Yes: 48% · No: 52%.

Given the trends and the importance of the fixture, the most likely scenario is a controlled, tactical match with few clear chances. Both sides will prioritize avoiding mistakes over taking risks, especially in the early stages.

Crystal Palace vs Zrinjski Mostar prediction by BetMines:
Under 2.5 goals with 52% probability.