Crystal Palace Vs Manchester City [0–3] – Premier League 2025/2026: Why The Scoreline Misleads – Tactical Analysis

Manchester City defeated Crystal Palace 3-0 in Gameweek 16 of the 2025/2026 edition of the Premier League.

With a brace from Erling Haaland and a stunner from Phil Foden, the Cityzens secured the all-important points to maintain second place, as Aston Villa chase them with just a point difference.

The Eagles are not far behind, as they hold onto fifth position.

The scoreline, although disappointing for Palace, is not a fair reflection of what transpired in the game.

Oliver Glasner’s game plan largely neutralised the visitors’ approach.

Additionally, Man City faced considerable pressure from the hosts throughout.

However, Pep Guardiola’s side scored during crucial points in the fixture, which overturned the flow of the game.

Through this tactical analysis, we aim to examine how Crystal Palace caused problems for Manchester City, along with what the latter did well to turn the game in their favour.

Crystal Palace Vs Manchester City Lineups & Formations

Let us look at how Oliver Glasner and Pep Guardiola fielded their squads.

The hosts, Crystal Palace, played in a 3-4-2-1 formation.

Dean Henderson was in goal.